The White House reported over 550 arrests in Washington, D.C., since President Donald Trump’s crime crackdown began on August 7. This effort, part of his broader strategy to restore safety to the nation’s capital, includes the seizure of illegal weapons and the removal of drugs from the streets. Law enforcement officials in the city have made more than 550 arrests since Aug. 7, including the apprehension of three known gangbangers, one of whom was an MS-13 member. The White House emphasized the crackdown as part of Trump’s plan to end the crime plague in Washington, D.C., claiming it removes dangerous criminals from the streets.
The operation involves both local and federal law enforcement, with the National Guard assisting in deterring crime. The crackdown has included arrests of illegal aliens with criminal histories, including multiple illegal reentries and threats of kidnapping or injury. The White House shared photos of items recovered during the Tuesday arrests, which included illegal substances, firearms, and knives. The National Guard is not making arrests, but is supporting law enforcement with crime prevention and public safety efforts.
Democratic officials have criticized Trump over the federalization of the city’s police department, arguing that crime data shows a decline in violence. The Metropolitan Police Department’s crime data is currently under Department of Justice review in response to claims of potential manipulation to create more favorable crime trends. The crackdown is expected to continue, with the U.S. Marshals Service offering $500 rewards for tips leading to arrests.