New York City will relocate 110 single homeless men into a Brooklyn shelter without conducting criminal background checks, a move that has sparked outrage among local residents.
The former Gold Star Inn in Sheepshead Bay has served as a family shelter for roughly a year. The Department of Homeless Services has decided to move the 55 families currently residing there and plans to house single adult men as early as next week.
Nearby residents have expressed alarm, citing an uptick in crime since the shelter opened and concerns that the transition to single men will worsen the situation.
A local plumber described incidents such as vehicle break‑ins, vandalism, and public indecency, noting the area was once quiet.
Police data shows a 400% increase in shooting incidents in the 61st Precinct this year, a doubling of rape reports, and a 10% rise in retail theft. Overall crime in the area fell about 7% compared to the same period last year.
Residents also worry that the city will not conduct criminal background checks on new shelter residents. A city councilwoman wrote that the lack of vetting could expose children and the elderly to potential sex offenders and felons.
She cited loitering, drug activity, and crime near the shelter, located across from a popular playground. A resident expressed concern that a recently released prisoner is already staying at the shelter.
The shelter is operated by BHRAGS, a nonprofit that has faced federal scrutiny after former leaders were indicted on charges of fraud and embezzlement. Despite the investigation, the organization received nearly $200 million in new city contracts earlier in the year.
City officials say the conversion reflects changing demand, with fewer families and more single men needing housing. They also noted BHRAGS is under new leadership following a reduction of the nonprofit's shelter portfolio.
A spokesperson for the Department of Social Services emphasized the agency’s commitment to addressing the stigma around single men experiencing homelessness and to maintaining open lines of communication with the community.
The spokesperson also highlighted the agency’s implementation of good neighbor policies to prioritize safety for all stakeholders.
The mayor’s office has been asked for comment.
