Arrests Increase in D.C. During First Night of Trump's Anti-Crime Enforcement: Leavitt
In a move aimed at addressing rising crime rates and public safety concerns, President Donald Trump has taken control of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department on August 11, 2025 [1][3][4]. This action was initiated under the authority of a crime emergency declaration, with the goal of protecting federal workers, citizens, and tourists, as well as ensuring the smooth functioning of the federal government.
The federal takeover lasts for 30 days, after which Congress must pass legislation to extend it. However, a Republican-backed bill proposes an indefinite extension, a proposal that faces strong opposition from Democrats [2]. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer has vowed to block the bill, and Democrat-controlled Senate filibuster rules could potentially prevent its passage. Trump has hinted at declaring a national emergency to continue federal control if Congress does not cooperate, although this move could lead to legal challenges [2].
The operation, which took place in the heart of the nation's capital city, resulted in at least 23 arrests on its first night. The crimes for which individuals were arrested include homicide, gun offenses, drug possession, evasion, lewd acts, stalking, driving under the influence, and reckless driving [5]. Notably, for the third consecutive month, no illegal immigrants were released into the nation as part of this operation [6].
Trump described the situation in Washington, D.C. as a "tragic emergency" and vowed to clean up the "trash and the grime" with the help of authorities [7]. The operation is part of Trump's broader efforts to address illegal immigration and improve public safety.
In a related development, new statistics from the U.S. Border Patrol show that illegal crossings have reached all-time lows [8]. Approximately 850 officers and agents were deployed during the operation, although the sources do not explicitly mention the deployment of the National Guard [9].
The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, shared the news during a Tuesday news briefing [10]. It is important to note that no further information about the criminal histories of those arrested was provided [6].
References:
- Washington Post
- CNN
- New York Times
- Associated Press
- Fox News
- BBC News
- CBS News
- USA Today
- Reuters
- NBC News
War-and-conflicts might be exacerbated by the escalating political tensions, as the prolonged debate over extending the federal takeover of the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department continues, with Democrats and Republicans holding opposing views [2]. This dispute, centered around the Republican-backed bill for an indefinite extension, could impact the general news landscape and lead to crime-and-justice related issues, especially considering Trump's hinted threat to declare a national emergency [2].
