Policing in Ocasio-Cortez's District Leads to Crime Reduction

A massive police crackdown on crime in "defund the police" advocate Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's district, which had seen rising issues like open-air prostitution and robberies, is being hailed as evidence that increased policing correlates with reduced crime rates.

New York City Mayor Eric Adams has spearheaded an aggressive 90-day police operation that resulted in a 25% decrease in crime in a Queens neighborhood represented by Ocasio-Cortez and Democratic Rep. Grace Meng.

Residents express that they feel safer but stress the need for ongoing efforts. Meanwhile, the mayor's office reported that Ocasio-Cortez showed minimal interest in the operation and did not coordinate with the administration.

According to Adams' press secretary, Kayla Mamelak Altus, "She hasn't even reached out for an update on the operation," indicating that Ocasio-Cortez has remained silent on the progress of the crackdown.

The operation, dubbed "Operation Restore Roosevelt," involved over 200 NYPD officers and state troopers targeting nearly two miles of Roosevelt Avenue, a commercial strip plagued by unlawful activities including illegal vending and prostitution.

During this initiative, there were nearly 1,000 arrests, including over 130 for prostitution-related offenses. The area has been likened to a "red light" district due to the visible presence of sex workers.

In addition to arrests, approximately 300 buildings were inspected, resulting in 18 vacate orders and two locations closed down for illegal cannabis sales. More than 520 vendors faced inspections, leading to the confiscation of 94 propane tanks and over 15,000 pounds of food deemed unsafe.

The Queens District Attorney's Office reported charges against 62 individuals for prostitution, with 15 locations shut down. Adams emphasized that maintaining a police presence contributes to public safety and community quality of life.

Local leaders, including City Council Member Francisco Moya, also supported the operation. Despite visible improvements, community concerns remain, with residents expressing ongoing fears about violent crimes and illegal gang activities.

Public statements from Adams and the NYPD noted the significance of the operation in restoring community trust and business presence in the area.

While some local politicians see the operation as a rejection of the "defund the police" ideology, there is consensus that further actions are necessary, as many illegal activities persist, along with the ongoing need for support systems addressing issues like human trafficking and prostitution.