A significant police operation in a Queens neighborhood, part of Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's district, has led to a notable decrease in crime. This area, previously struggling with open-air prostitution, robberies, and illegal vending, has seen a 25% drop in crime over 90 days thanks to "Operation Restore Roosevelt," an initiative spearheaded by NYC Mayor Eric Adams.

The operation involved over 200 NYPD officers and state troopers focusing on a nearly two-mile stretch of Roosevelt Avenue spanning Elmhurst, North Corona, and Jackson Heights. These neighborhoods, known for their diverse immigrant populations, had been grappling with escalating crime and quality-of-life issues, including unlicensed food vendors and pervasive prostitution. The latter issue, with sex workers openly soliciting on sidewalks and utilizing massage parlors or vacant storefronts, had earned the area an unfavorable comparison to a "red light district."

The results of "Operation Restore Roosevelt" are substantial: almost 1,000 arrests (over 130 related to prostitution), nearly 300 building inspections leading to 18 vacate orders and two padlocks for illegal cannabis sales, over 520 vendor inspections with 94 propane tanks confiscated and more than 15,000 pounds of food removed, and 464 vehicle confiscations (including 419 illegal two-wheeled vehicles and ATVs).

Mayor Adams' office emphasized the connection between increased police presence and reduced crime, highlighting the administration's commitment to improving both safety and the perception of safety. City Council Member Francisco Moya's significant role in the operation was also acknowledged, contrasting his tough-on-crime stance with the more progressive views of some other local Democrats.

While the operation has been largely lauded, concerns remain within the community. Despite the positive statistics, some residents still express fear, particularly regarding violent illegal migrant gangs and the ongoing issues of child and human trafficking connected to prostitution. Mayor Adams and NYPD Deputy Commissioner of Operations Kaz Daughtry reassured the community that the increased police presence would continue, and they pointed to signs of economic revitalization with businesses returning to the area.

The Queens District Attorney’s Office highlighted its human trafficking bureau and the support services offered to arrested sex workers, with a 40% acceptance rate. Rep. Grace Meng confirmed her office's communication with the local precinct and Council Member Moya regarding the ongoing situation. Local Democrat Hiram Monserrate, while acknowledging the operation's success, stressed the need for further action, citing the continued operation of brothels in the area and Rep. Ocasio-Cortez's alleged lack of response to community outreach.