‘Mission incomplete': Illegal brothels continue to plague Roosevelt Avenue
CORONA, Queens (PIX11) — Nearly half a year has passed since Mayor Eric Adams announced the creation of a multi-agency task force to address quality of life concerns along Roosevelt Avenue and Queens neighborhoods, yet concerns over illegal brothels and prostitution persist.
On Sunday, Councilman Hiram Monserrate and the Restore Roosevelt Avenue coalition highlighted PALLADIUM BAR at 111-34 Roosevelt Avenue, alleging that the bar operates a brothel in its basement.
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In addition to the brothel accusations, local clergy, and community members expressed concerns about the proximity between the bar and Iglesia Centro Cristian Juda, citing the business violates a rule that requires it to be 200 feet away from a house of worship.
'My church is directly next door to this rowdy bar that we understand also operates as a brothel. The NYPD has responded to this location. There have been assaults. It is a dangerous establishment, we cannot understand why the State would give them a license,' said Reverand Edgar Vinces.
'Why are street walkers still on 82nd Street and Roosevelt Avenue in Jackson Heights? Why is the Bodega Brothel still operating on 99th Street and Roosevelt Avenue in Corona? Why does this rowdy bar even have a license operating next to a church? Message to the City and State. Mission Incomplete on Roosevelt Avenue,' said Councilman Monserrate.
More: Latest News from Around the Tri-State
For years, the areas of Jackson Heights have had an influx of human trafficking and prostitution concerns. Complaints about Roosevelt Avenue's brothels and outdoor solicitations have only increased, causing the NYPD to raid storefronts allegedly being used as brothels.
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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