Update on Federal Operations in Washington, D.C.
FBI Director Kash Patel announced early Friday that 18 additional arrests were made by federal partners. This brings the total number of arrests to 120 since federal authorities took over policing in Washington, D.C., as initiated by President Trump.
According to Patel, the recent operations led to the recovery of eight firearms from criminals, the seizure of several illegal drugs, and arrests made on warrants for murder and rape. These efforts illustrate a significant law enforcement push since the initiative began.
The details were shared after Attorney General Pam Bondy appointed Drug Enforcement Administration manager Terry Cole as the new emergency police commissioner for D.C.
Local officials have expressed concerns, particularly D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwarb, stating that the Home Rules Act prevents the federal government from altering the chain of command in the district’s police. Under this act, Trump can only manage federal operations for 30 days unless Congress votes to extend that timeframe.
Trump commented on the situation, suggesting that Democrats are unlikely to address crime effectively, while he believes Republicans will almost unanimously support necessary crime legislation. He indicated that the focus will be primarily on D.C. initially.
In contrast, Democrats argue that crime statistics do not support the notion of excessive violence in the areas mentioned by Trump. Notably, violent crime in D.C. has decreased by 26% compared to 2024, with murder rates declining by 32% and overall violent crime falling by 35% from 2023.
Earlier in the week, the White House mentioned that 1,600 personnel were involved in law enforcement operations, resulting in 45 arrests on Wednesday alone.
The Pentagon reported that 800 Army and Air National Guard troops had been deployed by Thursday but noted that the National Guard’s role does not involve making arrests. Instead, they will aid local law enforcement, and the Metropolitan Police Department will support Immigration and Customs Enforcement in large-scale deportations throughout the district.
