FBI Plans to Dismantle Cross-Border Gangs in Queens

NEW YORK – The FBI is gearing up to take action against cross-border gangs that have significantly impacted Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s district, a hotspot for prostitution, drug trafficking, and violence.

In an exclusive chat with Fox News Digital, Christopher Leia, assistant director of the FBI’s New York office, outlined plans to deploy teams to patrol Roosevelt Avenue in Queens. He mentioned that they will be collaborating with the NYPD to effectively target these gangs. This stretch of road is also represented by Rep. Grace Meng, who shares a progressive stance similar to Ocasio-Cortez’s.

This announcement follows local officials urging FBI director Kash Patel to tackle these dangerous groups. Areas like this often see a significant amount of unregulated activities, including illegal street vendors selling food and goods that are suspected to be stolen.

FBI Takes Action Following Gang Violence

Earlier this summer, the FBI arrested eight members of the 18th Avenue gang, alleged to have committed brutal assaults to maintain their grip on the area. Originating as a street crew in Los Angeles in the 1960s, the gang is largely made up of Hispanic and Latinx individuals.

“What we saw in June was just the beginning. We’re ramping things up,” Raia noted during a conversation at the FBI’s Manhattan office. “We’re gathering intelligence, and our investigation is only getting started.” He emphasized the agency’s focus on Roosevelt Avenue since he was appointed to his position in April.

Raia shared that local officials have been vocal about their crime concerns, which the FBI is now addressing. “We hear your concerns. Director Patel is listening… We work around the clock to ensure community safety,” he assured.

Reports indicate that Asian gangs, in addition to the 18th Avenue gang, are also causing issues in the area. Local sources point to the involvement of gangs like Tren de Aragua and MS-13 as well.

Raia detailed a range of crimes linked to these gangs, from armed robbery and assaults to sex and drug trafficking. He acknowledged that many women working on Roosevelt Avenue are often victims of human trafficking.

“It’s clear that there are numerous sex workers out there, and we recognize many of them as victims. We’re delving deeper into the human trafficking aspect,” he stated.

Community Concerns and Ongoing Violent Incidents

Recently, a local judge charged a 31-year-old woman with sex trafficking related to two women brought from Mexico in 2022. This follows incidents earlier in the year where many women appeared to be soliciting on the streets, raising alarms about the area’s safety.

Leia cautioned that substantial action against the gangs is on the horizon. “There’s extensive work happening behind the scenes. You may not see us until we’re ready for major operations,” he indicated.

Local residents often express frustration about the cyclical nature of crime in the area. Despite past police crackdowns, many offenders return almost immediately after arrest. While NYPD focuses on quick arrests, Raia noted that federal prosecutions often lead to more severe consequences.

“When the FBI gets involved, we aim to tackle the root of the issue, which is more complex,” he explained, highlighting the difference in approach compared to local law enforcement. Raia mentioned that stiffer penalties for violent crimes ensure that offenders stay imprisoned longer.

Community leaders also emphasize the importance of federal intervention. Former Democrat Senator Hiram Monserrate welcomed the increased FBI efforts, noting that organized crime has turned the area into a hub for illegal activities.

Confirmation from Local Representatives

Rep. Meng expressed her support for strengthened federal resources to combat human trafficking and violent crime. She has been advocating for more funding for local law enforcement and community safety initiatives.

Ocasio-Cortez’s office did not respond to inquiries. The challenges in the district continue to weigh heavily on residents’ minds as they seek a tangible resolution to the ongoing issues.