A dozen reputed street gang members who terrorized Southeast Queens over the past year have been indicted in a major law enforcement operation, announced Thursday by Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, Mayor Eric Adams, and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch.
Dubbed “Operation Buzzkill,” the crackdown targets 12 alleged members of the Floss Money Ballers, accused of carrying out a violent feud with the rival Blitz Gang 4 across Springfield Gardens, Laurelton, Queens Village, and the Baisley Park Houses. Eight of the suspects were arrested during an Aug. 28 raid, while the remainder were already in custody for other crimes.
Suspects Off the Streets
The accused, ages 18 to 26, are all currently behind bars. “Six of the 12 defendants are alleged shooters who fired indiscriminately on Queens streets, attempting to kill,” Katz said at a Sept. 4 press conference. Each faces up to 25 years in prison.
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The Gang War
Authorities say the feud began in September 2024 after 18-year-old Akim Cisse was shot dead while sitting in a Nissan Altima in Springfield Gardens. A series of shootings followed, spreading terror throughout the neighborhoods.
“By the grace of God, no innocent bystanders were hit,” Katz said, highlighting the recklessness and rapid escalation of violence.
Yearlong Gang Violence
The violence began in September 2024 after 18-year-old Akim Cisse was fatally shot outside Springfield Gardens while sitting in his car. Subsequent shootings terrorized local neighborhoods, though, thankfully, no innocent bystanders were killed.
Notable Incidents
January 12: Floss Money Ballers members allegedly ambushed a rival on 142nd Avenue in Springfield Gardens, firing nine rounds. The target was unharmed.
May 10: Larry Spencer allegedly shot a man greeting his grandmother outside the Baisley Park Houses on Mother’s Day, striking him in the back and left arm. Surveillance footage shows the victim collapsing, though he survived.
“These incidents include 10 acts of violence, attempted murders, reckless shootings, gun possession charges, and repeat offenses,” Tisch said. “Eight suspects pulled the trigger in at least two separate shootings.”
Queens Law Enforcement Sends a Message
Katz noted that the Floss Money Ballers rose to prominence after a previous gang takedown in 2023. She warned that law enforcement will act decisively against anyone trying to fill the gang vacuum.
“If you’re part of a gang attempting to take over the streets, we will find you and arrest you,” Katz said.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Operation Buzzkill?
Operation Buzzkill is a law enforcement effort targeting the Floss Money Ballers gang in Southeast Queens. It resulted in the indictment of 12 alleged gang members involved in a yearlong shooting spree.
How many suspects were arrested?
Eight suspects were arrested during a police raid on August 28, while the remaining four were already in custody for other crimes.
Which neighborhoods were affected by the shootings?
The shootings occurred in Springfield Gardens, Laurelton, Queens Village, and the Baisley Park Houses.
How old are the accused?
The accused range in age from 18 to 26, and all are currently in custody.
What charges do the suspects face?
The 12 defendants face charges including attempted murder, reckless endangerment, gun possession, and multiple counts of violent shootings. Six are alleged shooters who fired indiscriminately.
Were any innocent bystanders hurt?
Fortunately, no innocent bystanders were killed, though some rival gang members were injured in the attacks.
What prompted the gang violence?
The violence began after the fatal shooting of 18-year-old Akim Cisse in September 2024, sparking a feud between the Floss Money Ballers and Blitz Gang 4.
Conclusion
The indictment of 12 alleged Floss Money Ballers members marks a significant victory for law enforcement in Queens, sending a clear message that gang violence will not be tolerated. Operation Buzzkill removed dangerous individuals from the streets, prevented further bloodshed, and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to public safety. Authorities continue to monitor gang activity, ensuring that neighborhoods in Southeast Queens remain protected.