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'It's terrifying!' Flatbush tenants describe living with rats

Despite 311 complaints and inspections confirming rat activity, tenants say the problem still persists.

Julia Burns

Apr 18, 2025, 10:40 PM

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Tenants in a Flatbush apartment say they have an infestation of rats in the building.

People like Alexandra Friedman say they're scared in their own home.

"It's terrifying...They're crawling around, nearly on top of us," said Friedman.

News 12 crews observed multiple burrows in the courtyard that appeared to be for rats. Tenants like Elias Liriano say it makes people feel uncomfortable in their own backyard.

"I don't want my children to catch diseases just because they want to play outside," said Liriano.

Despite 311 complaints and inspections confirming rat activity, Friedman says the problem still persists.

“We put on as much PPE and as much as we can manage and we'll try to get rid of them. But they're a biohazard of an incredible caliber. And we're just trying to survive," said Friedman.

The building super claims that he tries to cover up the holes but says there's only so much he can do.

News 12 also reached out to the building manager, but hasn't yet heard back.

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