Trump’s Federal Push in D.C. to Tackle Crime

Former Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger expressed support on Tuesday for President Donald Trump’s initiative to enhance law enforcement in Washington, D.C. Manger referred to Trump’s proposal, linked to Section 740 of the National Guard and Home Rules, as a potential positive step towards fighting crime.

On “Morning Joe,” Manger remarked, “If someone said they were going to add another half a million law enforcement officers to assist us, what’s not to like about that?”

Currently, FBI statistics indicate that violent crime and homicide rates in Washington have surpassed those from before the pandemic. It’s worth noting that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) crime data does not include aggravated assaults and felonies without weapons, even though local laws classify these as violent crimes causing physical harm.

While media outlets and city officials claim that crime rates have decreased by 35% since 2024, MPD data contrasts with FBI reports, which show only a 10% decline in violent crimes since 2024, a figure slightly above those recorded in 2018.

In 2025, a series of incidents raised concerns, including a high-profile shooting of Congressional intern Eric Tarpinian Yachim near a metro station and a violent attack on Edward Colistine, a government efficiency staff member, during an attempted carjacking.

During a press conference on the issue, U.S. attorney Janeine Pillo indicated that changes to Washington City Council laws aim to hold juvenile offenders accountable. Additionally, FBI Director Kash Patel assured that his agency is committed to equipping police with the necessary information to effectively apprehend violent offenders.