NYPD, state troopers forced to clean up AOC’s district due to rampant crime, prostitution

The operation focuses on neighborhoods like Elmhurst, North Corona, and Jackson Heights, known for their high crime rates and rampant prostitution. According to a Fox News report, Roosevelt Avenue, often referred to by locals as the "Avenue of the Sweethearts," has become a notorious red-light district where prostitutes openly operate throughout the day. Illegal street vendors have also been a persistent problem, selling everything from food and clothes to everyday items along the commercial strip.

"We will end sex trafficking in this area. We are not here for one day and go away. We're here for the problem to go away," Mayor Adams declared at a press conference on Tuesday. He detailed plans for increased law enforcement presence, including nine lieutenants, 42 sergeants, and 176 police officers working with over a dozen city agencies alongside the state troopers.

The heightened police presence is in response to long-standing calls from New York City residents for action against crime in the area. While a raid on local brothels in January appeared to have little effect, Tuesday saw a gathering of approximately 200 NYPD officers and state troopers along Roosevelt Avenue.

The effort was praised by former New York State Senator Hiram Monserrate, who described the area as an "urban crime zone." In a statement, Monserrate applauded the increased police presence, saying, "Today, true leadership stood up and began the process of taking Roosevelt Avenue back from the street gangs, cartels, human traffickers, street walkers and other criminal operations.”

"We support our police, and the community is looking forward to seeing positive results. We need public safety and quality of life returned… and we will remain vigilant,” Monserrate added.