Editor's note: The video aired on September 10.
CORONA, Queens (PIX11) -- Local officials and community members are voicing concerns over an alleged 24-hour brothel across from two schools in Queens.
The brothel operates behind a bodega across from PS 19 and PS 307, according to former New York City Councilman Hiram Monserrate.
“As a mother, we always worry about the safety and welfare of our children but what we see near Roosevelt Avenue now is terrifying,” said Ileana Martinez, a local parent of two elementary school students.
"Our community is crying out for help! Rescue Roosevelt Avenue! Protect our Children! We do not need backpack giveaways, we don’t need political rhetoric, we need more cops, counselors and a massive intervention for this community. The NYPD needs to shut this brothel down now. The Roosevelt Avenue Corridor remains lawless and unsafe,” said Monserrate.
Local law enforcement has been active in trying to crack down on prostitution, however, illegal activity continues in broad daylight.
On Sept. 18, the NYPD raided a storefront on Case Street off Roosevelt Avenue allegedly being used as a brothel. A small door was cut out of the roll-down gate to allow quick access into the building. Three people were arrested on prostitution charges.
Monserrate says occasional raids will not stop the illegal activity and requests more action from multiple law enforcement agencies. "It requires an increased and sustained police presence coupled with a multi- prong/multi agency response led by the NYPD. Make our community safer and cleaner, protect our children, basic mandates, let’s get it done!”
City Councilman Francisco Moya is pushing legislation that would mandate business licensing to address spas being used as fronts for prostitutes and pimps. This would make spas subject to NYC Health and Safety inspections, inevitably shutting down illegitimate spas that are fronts for prostitution.
“This bill is going to secure the public safety for one, prevent human trafficking, two, and three, and it’s going to help regulate an industry that has not been regulated for years,” Moya said.
The bill still needs to accumulate enough sponsors and go through the hearing process.
Ben Mitchell is a digital content producer from Vermont who has covered both local and international news since 2021. He joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of his work here.
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