New York Governor Kathy Hochul deployed state troopers to Roosevelt Avenue in Queens on Tuesday, October 15th, as part of a new initiative, “Operation Restore Roosevelt,” aimed at curbing rampant crime and prostitution in the area. This decision followed months of pleas from local business owners and residents, who had been grappling with a wave of criminal activity, including sex trafficking, drug dealing, and unlicensed vendors along the notorious stretch nicknamed the “Market of Sweethearts.”
The multi-agency operation, which includes the NYPD and other city departments, will see increased patrols and enforcement along Roosevelt Avenue in neighborhoods such as Jackson Heights, Elmhurst, and Corona. Mayor Eric Adams, who joined Hochul in announcing the initiative, emphasized the need to restore public safety. “We will end sex trafficking in this area,” Adams stated during a press conference, assuring residents that the operation is designed for long-term impact rather than being a temporary measure.
The local community welcomed the increased presence of law enforcement, with over 200 police officers and state troopers dispatched to the area. Democratic district leader Hiram Monserrate, who has been vocal about the need for additional resources, expressed gratitude to both the state and city officials for their efforts. “We are thankful to Governor Hochul and Mayor Adams for standing up and taking back our community from criminal elements,” Monserrate said.
The “Market of Sweethearts” had become synonymous with illegal activity, with residents and activists describing the area as a “crime zone” overrun by prostitution and human trafficking. Despite previous raids and crackdowns, illegal operations frequently resurfaced. The latest initiative aims to create a lasting change, with the NYPD and state troopers establishing a command center in the heart of the affected area to ensure continuous monitoring and enforcement.
The need for intervention became more pressing as the illicit activities extended into residential areas, with brothels operating near schools and playgrounds. Civic leaders have expressed hope that the ongoing operation will bring much-needed relief to the community. “We want our children to walk to school without encountering streetwalkers and criminal activity,” Monserrate noted.
The operation is set to continue for at least 90 days, with ongoing assessments to determine its effectiveness. Governor Hochul’s office confirmed that the number of state troopers deployed may vary depending on the situation but reiterated the state’s commitment to restoring safety to the area. “We will remain here as long as it takes to bring back public safety to the people of Queens,” Hochul stated.
