Arrest of rookie NYPD officers highlights ongoing prostitution problem in Queens

JACKSON HEIGHTS, Queens (PIX11) -- The arrest of two rookie NYPD officers on Roosevelt Avenue is once again drawing attention to the persistent issue of prostitution in Jackson Heights. 

Local leaders say the sex trade remains active despite a concerted effort to improve the quality of life in Queens. 

Barely two years into their careers, officers Justin McMillen and Justin Colon are accused of betraying the badge — allegedly victimizing the very people they swore to protect.

“They do what they can to stop it, and to take advantage of that — it’s insane,” a Queens resident said.

McMillen and Colon allegedly stole keys to a brothel operating on 89th Street and Roosevelt Avenue while responding to a prostitution complaint last summer. Prosecutors say the rookie cops returned eight hours later, while on duty, and sexually assaulted a worker.

“The fact that a beat cop groped a sex worker — it’s horrible. It further speaks to corruption in New York,” another resident said.

The two officers said nothing during their arraignment in Queens Criminal Court on Monday and have been suspended without pay by the department.

“This unfortunate indictment will bring more attention to the need here,” said Hiram Monserrate, a district leader.

Two months after Operation Restore Roosevelt Avenue culminated with Mayor Eric Adams touting it as a success, open-air sex solicitation was captured on camera in the notorious crime-ridden corridor, Monday afternoon.

“They popped a cork early, and we need them back. With warm weather, it will be bananas,” Monserrate said.

Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Kaz Daughtry insisted that the city has not turned its back on the neighborhood. “Mission accomplished is when every brothel is closed,” Daughtry said.

He added that 17 sex shops have been shuttered and many women have been rescued. “A lot of the women are taking services, and that's a win for us. We're not taking them into custody, we're looking to save them,” Daughtry said.

Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch emphasized that any officer who violates their oath will be “investigated, exposed, and held fully accountable.”

Meanwhile, the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) urged due process and warned against condemnation based solely on allegations. If convicted, the officers could face up to 15 years in prison.