New York City is reportedly preparing to house 110 single homeless men in a Brooklyn neighborhood without conducting criminal background checks, a decision that has ignited significant backlash from local residents. The former Gold Star Inn in Sheepshead Bay, which has been operating as a family shelter for approximately one year, is slated to begin accommodating single adult men as early as next week. The city's Department of Homeless Services plans to relocate the 55 families currently residing there.
Residents of the typically quiet Sheepshead Bay neighborhood have voiced alarm, telling the New York Post that they have already observed an increase in crime since the family shelter opened. They fear the transition to housing single men will exacerbate these issues.
According to NYPD data for the 61st Precinct, which encompasses Sheepshead Bay, shooting incidents have risen to five so far this year, marking a 400% increase compared to the same period in the previous year. Reports of rape have doubled from eight to 16, and retail theft has seen a 10% increase. However, overall crime in the area has reportedly dropped by about 7% year-to-year.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the absence of criminal background checks for incoming shelter residents. Republican City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov stated in a letter to the city's Department of Social Services (DSS) that the lack of vetting leaves open the possibility of individuals with past convictions, including sex offenses, coming into contact with children. The shelter is situated across the street from Lew Fidler Park, a popular local playground.
"People are breaking into cars, people are destroying the park, taking their pants down in the park," Fahad, a plumber from the nearby Brighton Beach area, told the outlet. "It used to be very quiet."
Another resident, who asked to remain anonymous, expressed disappointment with the city's diligence. "How can [they] say they are protecting children when they allow that? There are also elderly people who can be targets," she said. Olga Adynets, a neighbor, noted that someone recently released from prison is already staying at the shelter, adding to her apprehension.
The shelter is operated by BHRAGS, a nonprofit organization that has previously faced federal scrutiny. Its former executive director and board chairman were indicted on charges including wire fraud and embezzlement. Despite this, Mayor Zohran Mamdani reportedly awarded the organization nearly $200 million in new city contracts in June.
City officials cited a shift in demand, with fewer families entering the shelter system and a greater need for housing for single adult men, as the reason for the conversion. They also stated that BHRAGS is under new leadership and that the city has reduced the nonprofit's shelter portfolio.
A spokesperson for the DSS told The Post that the agency is addressing the stigma against homeless single men and implements "good neighbor policies" while maintaining communication with the community to resolve concerns. Fox News Digital has reached out to the mayor's office and DSS for comment.