"Neighborhood crimes dampened: A dozen suspects face charges for a sequence of shootings that intimidated local areas, specifically in Queens"

In a significant move to curb gang violence in Southeast Queens, 12 members of the Floss Money Ballers street gang have been charged in an operation called "Operation Buzzkill". The gang, which emerged from the dismantled Money World gang in March 2023, had been involved in a year-long violent feud with the rival Blitz Gang 4.

The feud, which began in September 2024 following the shooting death of 18-year-old Akim Cisse in Springfield Gardens, led to a series of shootings that plagued the area in the following weeks and months. DA Melinda Katz stated that no innocent bystanders were struck with bullets during the gang violence.

The indictment includes these 12 alleged members, who are facing up to 25 years in prison each. DA Katz alleged that six out of the 12 defendants are actual shooters who fired indiscriminately on the streets of Queens County.

In an incident on Jan. 12 at 6:30 p.m. at 142nd Avenue in Springfield Gardens, Kevson Hankey, Kevin Petit-Dieu, and Tahnell Williams are accused of luring a rival marijuana dealer and opening fire on him, with nine shell casings recovered at the scene. Surveillance video shows the victim collapsing to the ground and remaining motionless, but ultimately surviving the attack.

In another incident on May 10 at 6:10 p.m., Floss Money Ballers member Larry Spencer is accused of opening fire outside the Baisley Park Houses in South Jamaica, striking a victim on Mother's Day.

Eight of the indicted suspects were arrested during a police raid on Aug. 28, while the others were already behind bars for other crimes. Police Commissioner Tisch mentioned 10 separate acts of ruthless violence, attempted murders, reckless shootings, gun possession charges, and repeat offenses by the accused gang members.

DA Katz warns that others attempting to fill the vacuum left by the takedown will also be arrested. She stated that the Floss Money Ballers gang members came to prominence after a previous gang takedown in 2023. The press conference regarding the takedown was held in DA Katz's Kew Gardens office on Sept. 4.

The alleged gang members range in age from 18 to 26. The takedown is a testament to the law enforcement's commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of the community.