Pursuit of Gang Violence Reduction in Queens

A notorious street gang that had turned parts of Queens into a battleground has been effectively dismantled, providing residents with a Labor Day weekend free from gunfire, according to authorities.

Following a collaborative investigation between the NYPD and the Queens District Attorney’s Office, numerous members of the well-known Floss Money Ballers were taken into custody. This gang had notably impacted various neighborhoods in Queens during a violent feud over the past year.

“The weekend was unusually quiet in terms of violent crime in southeast Queens,” commented Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz. “This reduction in violence is directly linked to the arrests made, contributing to a safer community.”

The Floss Money Ballers, linked to the earlier Money World Crew—defeated by police in 2023—sparked significant violence in areas like Laurelton, Queens Village, Springfield Gardens, and Basley Park due to a turf war with the rival Blitz Gang 4. Authorities stated that this gang was responsible for the majority of local shootings since early last year.

“This crew wielded violence as a form of currency,” mentioned NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tish. “Their campaign of retaliatory shootings in South Jamaica escalated minor disputes into armed confrontations over the past year.”

An especially violent incident was reported on September 27, when 18-year-old gang member Akim Sisse was shot by Blitz Gang 4 while parked at a McDonald’s on South Conduit Avenue.

The following day, a vehicle occupied by Floss Money Ballers retaliated by shooting at a rival’s home. In another instance, they allegedly opened fire on a rival while the suspect was with his grandmother during Mother’s Day weekend, further escalating tensions.

During the investigation, authorities seized over a dozen firearms through search warrants executed at the residences of prominent gang members.

Last week, eight suspects were arrested, with four already in custody on charges ranging from conspiracy and attempted murder to possession of illegal firearms.

Among those identified were Larry “LB” Spencer, 20; Julio Frias, 21; Jamali “Mali B” Spaulding, 18; and several others in similar age brackets.

Mayor Eric Adams remarked on the arrests, noting that these actions are crucial in reducing violence and maintaining safety within the city.