NextFin news, The Trump administration will increase the federal law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C., beginning Thursday night, as confirmed by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. This decision comes in response to a recent rise in violent crime in the area, including an assault on a former Department of Government Efficiency staffer.
Leavitt stated, "President Trump has directed an increased presence of federal law enforcement to protect innocent citizens. Starting tonight, there will be no safe harbor for violent criminals in D.C. President Trump is committed to making our Nation’s capital safer for its residents, lawmakers, and visitors from all around the world." The increased law enforcement presence will commence at midnight and is planned as a seven-day initiative, with the possibility of extension.
The operation will be led by U.S. Park Police, with participation from various agencies including U.S. Capitol Police, FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, D.C. Police, and DEA. The focus will be on high-traffic tourist areas and other known hotspots in the city.
In announcing the increase, the White House highlighted several high-profile crimes in D.C., including the killing of two Israeli Embassy staff members in May. However, preliminary crime statistics from D.C. Police indicate that violent crime is down 26% year-to-date compared to the previous year.
Additionally, the White House noted that the actions taken are in compliance with the executive order titled "Making the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful," signed by President Trump in March. This order aims to ensure strict enforcement of public safety laws, including those related to assault, battery, larceny, and public intoxication.
On Wednesday, President Trump mentioned the possibility of federalizing the D.C. Police Department and deploying the National Guard to address crime concerns. It remains unclear if the National Guard will be part of the current mobilization.
Trump has previously expressed the need for federal oversight in D.C., stating, "I think that we should govern District of Columbia. It’s so important, the DC situation. I think that we should run it strong, run it with law and order." This latest initiative reflects ongoing discussions about federal involvement in local law enforcement amid rising crime rates.
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