NEW YORK — The NYPD’s Midtown North Precinct conducted an operation Friday night targeting illegal street vending around Rockefeller Center, a move authorities say is aimed at ensuring public safety and protecting both consumers and local businesses during the holiday season.
Officers focused on vendors operating without proper permits in one of the city’s busiest tourist destinations. The crackdown comes as thousands flock to Rockefeller Center daily to view the iconic Christmas tree and surrounding attractions. Police cited the risks associated with unregulated goods, which can pose safety concerns for consumers, as well as the need to support licensed businesses that are following city regulations.
“Enforcing these laws ensures public safety, protects consumers from unregulated goods, and supports local businesses operating legally,” the NYPD Midtown North said in a statement on social media.
Illegal vending has become a growing issue across the city, particularly in high-traffic areas like Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Rockefeller Center. Critics of illegal vending argue that it undermines licensed vendors who pay fees and adhere to regulations. In recent years, city officials have faced pressure to address the issue while balancing concerns about over-policing street vendors.
The NYPD did not disclose how many vendors were ticketed or had goods confiscated during the operation but indicated that enforcement efforts would continue throughout the holiday season.