Beneath the elevated train tracks of Queens’ Roosevelt Avenue, residents say a “red-light district” has taken root, replacing what was once a thriving immigrant commercial hub. Brothels disguised as massage parlors or bodegas operate openly, fueling calls for federal intervention as local enforcement struggles to contain the problem.
Frustrated by years of failed crackdowns, community leaders bypassed Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, appealing directly to FBI Director Kash Patel. Their coalition, Restore Roosevelt Avenue, has staged rallies outside alleged brothels, warning that gangs are forcing women into prostitution and selling drugs in broad daylight.
Police report over 350 prostitution-related arrests this year, but residents argue these efforts barely scratch the surface. Criminal organizations quickly replace arrested members, leaving families to navigate streets where solicitation is visible even near schools. Parents say the psychological toll on children is severe.
In April, federal agents arrested eight suspected members of the 18th Street gang tied to violence along the strip. Yet community leaders insist only a sweeping federal operation using racketeering and trafficking laws can dismantle entrenched networks that also include Tren de Aragua and Chinese organized crime groups.