NYC to move 110 single homeless men to quiet Brooklyn neighborhood, leaving locals worried: report

New York City plans to relocate 110 single homeless men to a newly converted shelter in the quiet Brooklyn neighborhood of Sheepshead Bay, according to a report by the New York Post. The former Gold Star Inn, which had been operating as a family shelter for approximately one year, will soon house single adult men instead. This decision comes after the city’s Department of Homeless Services determined that the shift aligns with evolving demand within the homeless population, noting a decline in family entries and an increase in requests for single adult housing. The relocation is scheduled to begin as early as next week, following the city’s decision to displace the 55 families currently residing at the facility. The move has sparked alarm among local residents, many of whom claim they have noticed a rise in criminal activity since the shelter opened. According to the Post, some neighbors report increased incidents such as car break-ins, vandalism in public spaces, and inappropriate behavior in parks. These concerns have intensified as the city moves forward with its plan to convert the shelter without conducting criminal background checks on incoming residents. NYPD data shows that crime in the 61st Precinct, which encompasses Sheepshead Bay, has seen notable increases. Shooting incidents have reached five so far this year, marking a 400% rise compared to the same period in 2025. Reports of sexual assault have also doubled, increasing from eight to 16 cases. While overall crime in the area has decreased by about 7% compared to the same time last year, residents argue that the specific types of crimes have worsened, raising fears that the presence of single male residents could lead to further issues. Local concerns have been amplified by the lack of criminal background checks for incoming shelter guests. Republican City Councilwoman Inna Vernikov voiced apprehension over the policy, stating that it leaves open the possibility of individuals with criminal histories, including sex offenders and felons, being housed near residential areas. She emphasized that the conversion would pose risks to both children and vulnerable populations such as the elderly, particularly given the proximity of the shelter to Lew Fidler Park, a well-used neighborhood playground. Neighbors have shared personal accounts of their worries. Ginny, a local resident who chose not to reveal her full name, criticized the city’s approach, calling it “not very diligent.” She questioned how the city could claim to protect children while allowing potentially dangerous individuals into the community. Another resident, Olga Adynets, mentioned that someone recently released from prison is already staying at the shelter, adding to the sense of unease among locals. The shelter is managed by BHRAGS, a nonprofit organization that has drawn federal attention due to legal troubles involving its former leadership. Roberto Samedy, the former executive director, and Jean Ronald Tirelus, the former board chairman, were indicted earlier this year on charges related to wire fraud, embezzlement, and receiving illegal payments. Despite these allegations, Mayor Zohran Mamdani approved nearly $200 million in new city contracts for the organization in June, according to the Post. The city claims that BHRAGS is undergoing a leadership overhaul and has been scaled back in terms of its shelter operations. City officials have defended the decision, asserting that the shift reflects broader trends in the homeless population. They noted that fewer families are seeking shelter services, while more single adults require housing. Officials also stated that the city is working to reduce the nonprofit’s role in the shelter system, emphasizing efforts to better meet the needs of diverse groups within the homeless community.