Washington, DC, Attorney General Brian Schwarb has come under fire following claims about an attack on Edward Colistine, known as “big ball,” that occurred on Sunday night.
The DC Attorney General’s office deals primarily with prosecuting juvenile offenses along with some misdemeanors committed by adults. Most adult crime cases in DC are handled by federal prosecutors, according to the Attorney General’s office.
Attacks on big balls in DC highlight issues stemming from poor policy decisions.
Schwarb’s office pledged to tackle “racial inequality,” yet there are concerns about downgrading felonies to misdemeanors, including carjacking, and reducing fees related to many cases.
– John Lefevre (@johnlefevre) August 6, 2025
Schwarb took office in 2023, and that same year, DC prosecutors dropped charges against an 11-year-old boy accused of assault and two robberies. Shortly after, the boy was arrested again for allegedly threatening a delivery driver while trying to steal his moped. The prosecutor stated the office is involved in negotiating plea deals with youth, as reported.
A representative from the Attorney General’s office declined to comment in detail but insisted that serious and violent juvenile crimes, including armed robbery and carjacking, are prosecuted whenever sufficient evidence exists.
Schwarb claims that prevention is key to reducing crime rather than relying on punitive measures for youths. He believes that providing structure and resources to young people and their families is essential.
During a panel in 2024, he sparked anger among residents by stating, “If we want to be safer, we need to focus on prevention rather than solely on arrests.” He emphasized that merely arresting individuals won’t solve the problem.
Residents of DC voiced their concerns during the panel, demanding accountability from local leaders regarding the city’s violent crime issues.
Schwarb responded, “We can’t just prosecute or arrest our way out of this.” pic.twitter.com/heut8gg7al
– Carrie Severino (@jcnseverino) January 31, 2024
He further explained that young individuals are prone to mistakes as they are still developing mentally. It was a relatable perspective, reflecting on how everyone makes errors while growing up. Yet, some community members express frustration with current juvenile crime policies.
Kevin McGillie, a foster parent, recounted that his foster child was released without charge after being accused of carjacking, indicating a gap in the justice system. “I don’t want to put a 15-year-old in jail, but I need them to understand the seriousness of their actions,” he mentioned.
He also illustrated his anxiety about unresolved carjackings, likening it to a contagious ailment that requires early and decisive action to prevent its spread.
The attack on Coristine was reportedly linked to an attempted carjacking, which led to the arrest of two 15-year-olds, now facing charges for unarmed carjacking.
Schwarb commented on the incident, acknowledging its alarming nature. He stated, “If there’s enough evidence of wrongdoing by a minor, we will ensure they face consequences.”
Elon Musk has drawn attention to the alleged violence, while plans are being discussed about possibly deploying the National Guard to address crime in the capital.
