Trump’s D.C. Police Takeover Sparks Over 100 Arrests in the First Days
D.C. Under Siege? Trump’s Federal Police Takeover Nets 100+ Arrests in First Few Days
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Since August 7, more than 100 individuals have been arrested in a sweeping federal operation triggered by President Trump’s federal takeover of the D.C. police force. The initiative, announced via executive order, aims to “make DC safe and beautiful” in response to what Trump framed as a city under siege.
According to a White House official, law enforcement made 103 arrests by Wednesday morning, including 43 arrests on Tuesday alone, as part of the task force’s intensified sweeps. Among Tuesday’s arrests were:
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1 homicide suspect
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7 narcotics-related charges
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33 firearm offenses
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10 individuals with outstanding warrants
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23 undocumented immigrants
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A total of 24 firearms were seized
These efforts are conducted under the authority granted by Section 740 of the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which allows the president to assume temporary control of the Metropolitan Police Department during emergencies.
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The initiative has also mobilized federal agents across D.C., including the FBI, DEA, ATF, ICE, and the Park Police—who now patrol alongside the National Guard and local officers in a 24/7 operation aimed at cleaning up crime and homelessness.
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But the crackdown isn’t without controversy. While Trump insists the city has descended into “total lawlessness,” data shows that violent crime in D.C. has been steadily declining—down roughly 26% so far in 2025. Critics argue this is less a crime-fighting necessity and more a political spectacle.
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Mayor Muriel Bowser and D.C. officials have strongly opposed the move, labeling it authoritarian and constitutionally questionable. Senate Democrats, including Chuck Schumer, have vowed to block any extension beyond the 30-day emergency period without legislative approval.
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As the task force continues—and rumors swirl about extending federal control—D.C. faces a critical test. Will this crackdown prove a public safety win—or merely deepen political and legal divides?
