Washington Square Park is under heightened surveillance after 19 people were arrested on Thursday for involvement in a yearslong narcotics network that resulted in at least two fentanyl overdose deaths, according to federal officials.
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the New York City Police Department said the individuals were involved in WSP Enterprise, the open-air drug market that operates out of the park — which reportedly distributed millions of doses of fentanyl, heroin and crack cocaine over nearly five years. To bolster police presence in the area, more than two dozen NYPD officers across various precincts now take shifts patrolling the park 24/7. In a statement to WSN, NYU spokesperson Joseph Tirella said the university is “pleased” to see increased law enforcement.
“Since last year, NYU has been an active participant with other local stakeholders, the city and law enforcement in addressing quality of life and safety concerns in and around Washington Square Park,” Tirella said. “We look forward to continuing to be part of the collective efforts along with the city in making improvements.”…