An illegal brothel across from two public elementary schools in Queens has been shut down by the NYPD, highlighting what residents call a failure of leadership from Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. The brothel operated on the second floor of a bodega along Roosevelt Avenue, a stretch plagued by prostitution and migrant gang activity. Local leaders say the congresswoman ignored months of public outcry.
Known as the “bodega brothel,” the site had several makeshift rooms divided by panels and curtains, each with a bed used for prostitution. Police raided the building this week, removed the furniture, and padlocked the door. Parents had long complained about students walking past sex workers on their way to school.
Former Democrat state senator Hiram Monserrate organized multiple rallies to shut down the brothel. He described the location as unsanitary and dangerous, calling its closure “long overdue.” Republican city council candidate Ramses Frías said the closure happened only because local residents took action. He criticized Ocasio-Cortez for failing to attend any rallies or take part in cleanup efforts.
The prostitution problem in this part of Queens is linked to the growing presence of illegal aliens, according to neighborhood advocates. Many of the women involved are reportedly Venezuelan migrants controlled by the violent Tren de Aragua gang. Roosevelt Avenue has become a hub for organized crime, including drug and weapon trafficking.
Mayor Eric Adams launched “Operation Restore Roosevelt” last fall to address the situation. Authorities say the initiative led to over 1,800 arrests and a 37 percent drop in crime along the two-mile corridor. Despite the progress, Monserrate says federal involvement is still necessary and has asked the FBI to investigate deeper criminal activity. No response has been received.
Rep. Ocasio-Cortez’s office has declined to comment on the matter.
