Trump increases federal law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C. over city crime

The White House on Thursday announced President Donald Trump has authorized an increased presence of federal law enforcement officers in touristy areas of Washington, D.C. as Republicans slam the city for failing to prosecute minors.

The move comes after Trump threatened to end D.C. home rule on Tuesday if the city did not step up when it comes to prosecuting minors who commit serious crimes. 

Trump claimed the city's lenient attitudes toward underaged criminals had emboldened them, after former 19-year-old Department of Government Efficiency staffer Edward Coristine was assaulted by an alleged group of juveniles over the weekend who were apparently trying to carjack a vehicle in Northwest D.C.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump has authorized more federal law enforcement officers to help police the city, led by the U.S. Park Police, according to Politico.

“Washington, DC is an amazing city, but it has been plagued by violent crime for far too long,” Leavitt said. “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.”

Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Homeland Security Investigations, and its Enforcement and Removal Protections will also be deployed, along with the Metropolitan Police Department, United States Capitol Police and Metro Transit Police Department.

The increased presence will be part of a seven-day operation, which can be extended if needed, and will be focused on “high-traffic tourist areas."

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.