Staff Reports
Residents in Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s district are sounding the alarm over a surge in violent crime, prostitution, and gang activity that has transformed parts of Queens into what many now call a “Red Light” district. Despite a high-profile NYPD crackdown dubbed “Operation Restore Roosevelt,” which resulted in over 1,800 arrests and a reported 37% drop in crime in the Roosevelt Avenue corridor, locals say the relief was short-lived. Gangs quickly replaced arrested members, and illegal activity—especially open-air prostitution and drug dealing—resumed almost immediately, leaving residents feeling abandoned by their elected officials.
The frustration in the community is palpable. While AOC travels the country promoting her national agenda and “fighting the oligarchy,” her own constituents are pleading for help, even going so far as to request intervention from the FBI and DEA. Residents and business owners describe a neighborhood where makeshift brothels operate openly, illegal vendors clog sidewalks, and the notorious 18th Street Gang has seized control of criminal operations, including human trafficking and drug sales. Many of the sex workers are recent migrants, and some of these illicit businesses are operating in plain sight near schools, further endangering the community.
Local leaders and former allies of Ocasio-Cortez have not minced words, accusing her of being missing in action as the crisis deepens. Despite repeated outreach from community groups and activists, AOC has reportedly failed to coordinate with city efforts to clean up the area or even respond to requests for updates. This lack of engagement stands in stark contrast to the approach of other area representatives, like Grace Meng, who has maintained active communication with local law enforcement and advocates for more resources to improve public safety.
The situation has become so dire that even Democratic officials who once supported AOC are now publicly criticizing her leadership. They argue that her focus on national issues and progressive causes has come at the expense of addressing the real and immediate needs of her district. The “defund the police” rhetoric once championed by AOC has proven to be a disastrous experiment, as the recent policing surge demonstrated that more law enforcement, not less, leads to safer streets. Yet, the return of crime after the crackdown highlights the need for sustained, accountable leadership and a real commitment to law and order.
As the community looks for solutions, there is a growing call to #refundthepolice and implement comprehensive strategies, including increased police presence, tougher enforcement against repeat offenders, and multi-agency collaboration to tackle quality-of-life crimes. Residents are demanding leaders who prioritize their safety and well-being over political grandstanding. The crisis in AOC’s district is a cautionary tale about what happens when ideology trumps accountability, and it serves as a rallying cry for voters who want real change and a return to common-sense governance.
