NEW YORK –

“Because of organized crime, we’ve become the Walmart of the illegal sex trade in New York City and a haven for criminal operations,” said Monserrate, a former police officer. He recalled the strip as a criminal hub in the 1990s before the NYPD cracked down, but said today’s wave of crime is unprecedented.

“We welcome the full and expansive participation of the FBI in investigating and ridding our community of the cartels and street gangs that have wreaked havoc here…It’s the only real option for a lasting solution that will bring safety and stability.”

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Meng also welcomed the news and said she has pressed for more federal resources.

“These include measures to prosecute human trafficking, combat violent crime and gangs and boost funding for state and local law enforcement,” Meng told Fox News Digital. 

“I am also seeking federal money to support local initiatives, such as a request for a mobile command center. As I’ve said and continue to say, public safety and quality of life must be a top priority.”

Ocasio-Cortez’s office did not respond to a Fox News Digital request for comment.