The Roosevelt Avenue area in Queens, New York, represented by Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, had become a hub for illegal activities, including open-air prostitution, robberies, and unlicensed vending, significantly impacting the quality of life for residents. This prompted New York City Mayor Eric Adams to launch “Operation Restore Roosevelt,” a 90-day intensive police crackdown involving over 200 NYPD officers and state troopers. The operation targeted a nearly two-mile stretch of Roosevelt Avenue encompassing the neighborhoods of Elmhurst, North Corona, and Jackson Heights, areas with a substantial immigrant population.
The operation yielded nearly 1,000 arrests, addressing various offenses, including over 130 prostitution-related arrests. Authorities inspected close to 300 buildings, leading to 18 vacate orders and the closure of two locations selling illegal cannabis. Over 520 vendors were inspected, resulting in the confiscation of 94 propane tanks and over 15,000 pounds of potentially unsafe food. Furthermore, 464 vehicles, including a large number of illegal two-wheeled vehicles and ATVs, were seized. The Queens District Attorney’s Office reported 62 prostitution charges and the shutdown of 15 related establishments. The significant enforcement actions have led to a 25% drop in crime in the targeted area.
Mayor Adams and his administration have touted the operation’s success as evidence that a stronger police presence effectively reduces crime and improves public safety. They emphasized that even seemingly minor offenses like illegal vending contribute to a sense of lawlessness and fear among residents. The increased police presence aims to restore a sense of order and security to the community. Adams has pledged continued police presence in the area even after the conclusion of the 90-day operation.
While the operation has been largely welcomed by residents and local activists who have expressed feeling safer, concerns remain. Some residents, while acknowledging the improvements, still feel unsafe, particularly due to the presence of violent gangs and ongoing issues with human trafficking. They have called for further action to address these persistent challenges. One resident shared a personal experience of a family member being threatened with a knife, highlighting the continued need for safety improvements.
Rep. Ocasio-Cortez’s involvement in addressing the crime surge has been criticized. The mayor’s office stated that she has been largely unresponsive to their efforts and has not actively participated in addressing the issues plaguing her district. This lack of engagement stands in contrast to her previous advocacy for illegal vendors in the area, urging for their licensing. Local community groups have also reported difficulty in engaging with her office regarding the ongoing problems.
Local Democrat politician Hiram Monserrate, while acknowledging the operation’s positive impact, emphasized the need for continued vigilance and further action. He highlighted the continued operation of brothels in the area, including one near two elementary schools, as evidence that the fight against crime is not over. He stressed that declaring victory prematurely would be inappropriate given the persistent challenges. The operation’s success, however, serves as a counterpoint to the “defund the police” movement, demonstrating the efficacy of a robust and proactive police presence in curbing crime and improving community safety. The ongoing debate regarding policing strategies and community safety remains a central issue in the area.
