Local leaders in the immigrant-heavy neighborhood have repeatedly called for FBI Director Kash Patel to take aggressive action against the ruthless gangs, as concerned residents have held weekly protests outside what they say are well-known brothels operating in the area, often disguised as beauty salons. The area is often referred to as a red-light district and is also scarred by trash and unsanitary conditions, with illegal vendors selling unregulated food and suspected stolen goods.
A major FBI-led operation earlier this summer resulted in the arrest of eight members of the 18th Street gang, accused of carrying out several brutal beatings and stabbings to maintain their dominance over the strip. The 18th Street gang, which originated as a street crew in Los Angeles in the 1960s, is composed mainly of Hispanic and Latino members. Raia expressed that the June operation was only the beginning, stating that the FBI has infiltrated the gangs and is watching their activities closely, with the intention of taking them down in the future.
Raia, who was appointed to his role in April, has made Roosevelt Avenue a top priority as part of Director Patel’s strategy to combat violent crime in major cities. He highlighted that the FBI is taking a more comprehensive approach compared to the NYPD, often leading to longer prison sentences for convicted gang members. The FBI’s involvement in investigations is typically more complex and takes longer, but allows for the application of stricter penalties for violent crimes and human trafficking offenses.
Residents expressed frustration over the persistent presence of brothels in the area, with some noting that suspects are often arrested only to return to the streets. A recent massive 90-day police crackdown on crime in the area put a temporary dent in criminal activity, but the effect was short-lived. Raia emphasized that the FBI’s strategy is to target the leadership of the gangs, aiming to dismantle their networks and bring long-term stability to the community.
Former state Sen. Hiram Monserrate, who has been organizing weekly rallies against the brothels with his Restore Roosevelt Avenue Coalition, welcomed the FBI’s increased enforcement. He criticized the current state of affairs, stating that the district has become the Walmart of the illegal sex trade in New York City and a haven for criminal operations. Monserrate reiterated that the FBI’s involvement is essential for a lasting solution, bringing safety and stability to the community.
Representative Grace Meng, also from the district, expressed her support for the FBI’s increased involvement, stating that she has been advocating for more federal resources to combat human trafficking, violent crime, and gangs while also pushing for increased funding for local law enforcement initiatives.
Ocasio-Cortez’s office has not responded to requests for comment on the FBI’s actions in the area.