Agents from the federal government will maintain constant vigilance in their patrols around Washington, according to the White House announcement.

In recent developments, President Donald Trump's administration has deployed a significant number of military and federal forces in Washington D.C., aiming to assist the city's law enforcement. Here's a summary of the key events:

Deployment of Forces

The administration has mobilized elements of the D.C. National Guard, troops from various cooperating states, and a surge of federal law enforcement agents, including those from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI. Over 800 D.C. National Guardsmen have been called up, with hundreds more state National Guardsmen on their way[1].

Statutory Emergency Power

The administration invoked a statutory emergency power to requisition the services of the city's Metropolitan Police Department, centralizing control over law enforcement in the city[1].

Controversy and Criticism

The move has been met with criticism, raising questions about potential violations of the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits the use of the military for domestic law enforcement. Critics argue that crime trends do not justify such measures, and the focus on immigration enforcement has led to aggressive policing practices[1][3].

Federal Order

The White House issued an order declaring a crime emergency in D.C., citing rising violence and the need to ensure public safety. This order was based on the District of Columbia Self-Government and Governmental Reorganization Act and other federal laws[2].

Ground Reality

On the ground, the effort has morphed into an immigration-focused operation, with widespread checkpoints and enforcement activities[3].

Impact on Residents

For some residents, the increased presence of law enforcement and National Guard troops is unsettling, particularly for African Americans. Hundreds of federal law enforcement and city police officers patrolled the streets on Tuesday night, with federal officers visible in scattered areas of the city for two days prior[4].

Arrests and Seizures

The arrests made by 1,450 federal and local officers across the city included those for suspicion of driving under the influence, unlawful entry, and a warrant for assault with a deadly weapon. Seven illegal firearms were seized[3].

Protests and Future Plans

Residents in one Washington, D.C., neighborhood protested the increased police presence, with hecklers shouting "Go home, fascists" and "Get off our streets." Trump has suggested he could seek a longer period of control over the city or decide to call on Congress to exercise authority over city laws his administration sees as lax on crime[5].

The current status of President Trump's plan to take over Washington D.C.'s law enforcement functions involves a significant deployment of military and federal forces, despite objections from city officials and concerns about the legality and effectiveness of these measures.

[1] The Washington Post

[2] CNN

[3] The Associated Press

[4] The New York Times

[5] NBC News

Agents from the federal government will maintain constant vigilance in their patrols around Washington, according to the White House announcement.