In a recent interview, Li Qiji, the vice president of the New York Public Safety Patrol (NYPSP), shed light on the organization’s latest patrol initiatives aimed at tackling the rising issue of prostitution in Flushing, Queens. He pointed out that this problem has contributed to an influx of undocumented immigrants, significantly affecting the quality of life for the community.
On the night of October 4th, the patrol launched operations specifically focused on Route 40 and its nearby areas. “Prostitution in Flushing has been on the rise, drawing in homeless individuals and drug addicts, which has severely compromised community safety,” Li remarked. He expressed optimism that these patrols would effectively mitigate such activities and encourage women engaged in sex work to operate indoors instead of soliciting on the streets.
Li stressed that women working indoors who feel unsafe can reach out to the patrol for assistance. “Our goal is to ensure the safety of pedestrians, businesses, and these women who are trying to make a living,” he clarified.
Around 15 patrol members were involved in the operation, and Li mentioned plans for more nighttime patrols alongside daytime efforts that would include retired police officers and security staff. “We hope these patrol measures lead to long-term improvements in community safety,” he noted.
The initiative was also bolstered by insights from Stewart Hsiao Loo, the former commander of the Asian Hate Crime Task Force, who provided advice on strategic positioning and observation techniques for patrol members. “I want them to be visible at specific times in key locations, standing in the right spots to monitor the area. If those involved in illegal activities see they’re being watched, they might reconsider where they conduct their business, potentially moving indoors,” Loo explained.
He added that the patrols are meant to serve as a deterrent. “By increasing our presence, we aim to make this area a difficult environment for prostitution to thrive. Anyone looking for sexual services on the street should think twice—less of such activity will lead to a reduction in other unsavory behaviors, thereby enhancing overall community safety,” he asserted.
However, during the operation that night, no indicators of prostitution were found, leading the patrol team to suspect that word about their plans may have leaked, causing related activities to be temporarily concealed. The patrol team confirmed their dedication to ongoing monitoring of the area to ensure the safety and quality of life for local residents.
