Federal authorities have dismantled approximately 75 homeless encampments across various cities, a move initiated by President Trump as part of his campaign to clean up Washington, D.C. However, the efforts are ongoing.
Since the issuance of an executive order in March aimed at making D.C. “safe and beautiful,” the U.S. Parks Police have been busy removing numerous tents, as reported by the Home Office on Friday.
As of August 6, officials indicated that around 80 graffiti locations within Capitol Hill Parks have also been cleaned up.
“President Trump’s March order directs us to make D.C. safer and more attractive. Our tireless U.S. Parks Police are on duty around the clock, enforcing this directive and ensuring the safety of our nation’s capital,” an official stated.
Exclusive images reveal the presence of homeless tents in various areas of D.C. prior to their removal by authorities.
Under the guidance of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, new rules have been implemented, creating a strict policy against illegal camping on properties managed by the National Park Service in Washington.
The federal government is also ramping up efforts against vandalism, targeting those who deface federal monuments, buildings, and statues with graffiti.
The Justice Department plans to seek hefty penalties for those convicted of such offenses—fines up to $100,000 and potentially one year of imprisonment.
The U.S. Parks Police now have the authority to pursue suspects that flee under specific circumstances.
This cleanup initiative aligns with President Trump’s latest efforts to address crime in the capital.
Secretary Burgum remarked during a press conference that the Trump administration has empowered law enforcement, contrasting this period with the time under President Biden when homeless encampments were prevalent on federal property.
The cleanup coincides with the Trump administration’s renewed focus on tackling crime in D.C.
“Our Parks police officers are quite pleased that President Trump is allowing them to enforce the law,” Burgum noted in a Monday press conference alongside Trump and other cabinet officials.
Additionally, Trump has deployed the National Guard to the city in response to ongoing crime concerns.
However, city officials have filed lawsuits against Trump, alleging that his police department interventions are “illegal” and that he is overstepping his authority as commander-in-chief.
Burgum stated that during Biden’s presidency, homeless encampments proliferated across federal sites.
“The Parks police continue their important work, whether on vehicles, on foot, or mounted patrols around the National Mall,” he added.
Recently, Trump has taken more control over the D.C. Metropolitan Police Department by sending in National Guard units and federal agents to tackle long-standing safety issues in the city. Nevertheless, city officials are contesting this “illegal” takeover through legal action.
