Community leaders and residents in Queens are calling for urgent federal assistance to tackle escalating gang violence, prostitution, and human trafficking along Roosevelt Avenue, a corridor now commonly referred to as the borough’s “Red Light” district.
The surge in illegal activity is reportedly being driven by the 18th Street Gang, which locals say has taken control of brothels and extortion operations following prior crackdowns on other criminal groups. Despite a recent NYPD campaign—Operation Restore Roosevelt—that led to more than 1,800 arrests and a significant dip in reported crime, residents say the problems have returned, with gang tags reappearing and underground bars continuing to serve as fronts for sex work.
Former state senator Hiram Monserrate and local advocacy groups have identified at least 20 suspected brothels operating in the area, some within blocks of schools and churches. They’re now appealing directly to federal officials, including FBI leadership, to step in and support law enforcement efforts to dismantle what they describe as organized criminal enterprises.
In response to the growing concerns, Congresswoman Grace Meng has pledged to push for increased federal support, while Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who represents the district, has not yet commented but is scheduled to hold a town hall in the area this weekend.
As Roosevelt Avenue residents fight to reclaim their neighborhoods, the mounting pressure on federal agencies underscores the urgent need for long-term solutions to break the cycle of exploitation and violence.