Trump to convene press event concerning surging violent crime in Washington D.C., amid heightened federal law enforcement presence
In a bid to address the escalating violent crime situation in the nation's capital, President Trump has increased the federal law enforcement presence in Washington D.C. starting last Friday. This decision comes in response to the city's perceived "out-of-control" crime rate, which endangers public servants, citizens, and tourists, disrupts federal government functioning, and undermines public safety and confidence.
The White House revealed that during the increased law enforcement presence on Friday night, two stolen firearms and illegal drugs were found. The administration seeks to restore peace and security in the capital by supplementing local police with federal agents and 800 National Guard troops. Agencies such as the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Secret Service, Park Police, and the National Guard are involved in this operation.
The law enforcement officers are primarily focused on tourist areas and hot spots within D.C., aiming to reduce violent crime and improve safety, especially around federal buildings. This deployment is expected to stabilize law enforcement conditions and allow federal workers to perform their duties without fear.
Despite the increased federal presence, the city's crime rate is at one of its lowest points in decades. According to official crime statistics, violent crime is down 51 percent from this time last year to this time in 2023, and total crime is down 25 percent. The D.C. Mayor's Office has highlighted that while they've made meaningful progress, they recognize that their work is far from over as long as one person falls victim to violence or criminal activity.
Recently confirmed U.S. Attorney for D.C., Jeanine Pirro, has directed the D.C. council to get rid of laws that are too lenient on juveniles who commit crimes. Republican representative Byron Donalds has presented the 'D.C. Crimes Act', which gives Congress more control over D.C. and prohibits the Council from creating or changing certain laws about crime.
The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, described the increase in federal law enforcement presence as a success and expressed confidence that President Trump is delivering on his promise to Make D.C. Safe Again. Deputy Mayor Lindsey Appiah emphasized that the city is actively working to ensure residents and visitors feel safe throughout all parts of D.C.
President Trump has announced a press conference to address violent crime in D.C. on Monday. The Mayor's Office remains committed to making the city safer and stronger for all residents. The residents and visitors of Washington, D.C. can be confident that efforts are being made to ensure their safety and security.
Here is the city's full statement from Deputy Mayor Lindsey Appiah:
"We are committed to making Washington, D.C. a safe and secure city for all. While we have made significant strides in reducing crime, we understand that our work is far from over. We are actively working with our federal partners to address the recent increase in violent crime and ensure the safety of our residents and visitors. We remain dedicated to making Washington, D.C. a city where everyone can live, work, and visit without fear."
As the situation develops, updates will be provided regarding the federal law enforcement surge in Washington D.C. and the efforts to restore peace and security in the capital.
- The White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared the increase in federal law enforcement presence in Washington D.C. a success, demonstrating President Trump's commitment to delivering on his promise to 'Make D.C. Safe Again'.
- The D.C. Mayor's Office, while acknowledging the decrease in crime rates, emphasized that their work towards ensuring safety and security in the city is far from over, especially with regard to vulnerable residents and visitors.
