Surge in Law Enforcement Praised by U.S. Attorney
On Tuesday, Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, highlighted the significant effects of President Donald Trump’s increased deployment of federal law enforcement resources, stating, “We are prosecuting crimes in our District like never before.”
This statement followed an announcement from the U.S. Marshals Service, which revealed last week that “as of December 31, the Operation Task Force to Make Washington, D.C. Safer and Beautiful has arrested over 8,152 violent fugitives.” Among those apprehended, there were 20 individuals charged with murder, 1,343 facing drug-related charges, 633 for weapon offenses, 29 for sex offenses, and 48 known gang members.
According to Pirro, “As a result of the surge, 8,406 people have been arrested and 856 firearms have been seized from the streets,” which helps prevent their potential use in violent crimes. She added, “I think we truly are prosecuting crimes more vigorously now, ensuring real accountability and meaningful consequences.” For the first time in years, she mentioned, violent offenders are being prosecuted instead of immediately released.
High Prosecution Rates in D.C.
She noted, “The District’s prosecution rate is at a historic high, and we’re handling more cases than ever before. Only about 10% of cases are going unindicted, a stark contrast to nearly 70% during the previous administration. So, it seems crime has significantly decreased, thanks to strong enforcement and prosecution efforts.”
She went on to report that murders have dropped by 60%, robberies by 49%, and carjackings by 68%. “Overall crime has decreased by 32%,” she stated.
As Pirro reflected on the past year, she cited 2025 as a pivotal moment in their fight against crime. “I really believe this year marked a turning point. President Trump’s steadfast commitment to law and order, combined with the surge of federal resources and additional agents, has had an undeniable impact on our district’s safety.”
Continued Focus on Criminal Activity
She emphasized that the administration’s focus on addressing violent crime and dismantling criminal networks is not empty talk. “This isn’t just talk; it’s tangible action that has real benefits for the residents of our district,” Pirro remarked.
The U.S. Marshals Service has previously communicated that operations for the task force commenced in early August, all in line with directions from President Trump. Under the leadership of Secretary Gadiases Seralta, the task force consists of over 3,100 personnel from 28 different government agencies.
Reflecting on the administration’s goals, President Trump highlighted the importance of safety and maintenance throughout the city. He stated, “America’s capital must be a place where everyone—residents, commuters, and visitors—feels safe, especially on public transportation. Our streets and parks ought to be clean and inviting.” He asserted that the monuments and buildings should symbolize the country’s strength and heritage.
