On August 11, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order declaring a crime emergency in the District of Columbia. This measure aims to enhance public safety for residents, tourists, and federal workers while ensuring the effective operation of the federal government. The Order allows the Metropolitan Police Department to assist in maintaining law and order, protecting federal properties, and addressing the rising crime rates that have significantly impacted the city.

The crime emergency declaration is a response to alarming statistics, with Washington, D.C. experiencing one of the highest rates of robbery and murder among large U.S. cities. In 2024, the city reported a homicide rate exceeding 27 per 100,000 residents, along with vehicle theft rates surpassing the national average. The President emphasized that the increasing violence poses a threat not only to the District but also to national security, as it affects the recruitment and retention of essential federal personnel.

President Trump has pledged to revitalize the capital by addressing these crime issues and enhancing public safety. He previously established a task force aimed at improving D.C.’s infrastructure and reducing crime, reflecting his commitment to making the city a model of security and prosperity. The administration asserts that restoring order in Washington, D.C., is fundamental to fulfilling the President’s constitutional obligations and ensuring that the capital is a source of pride for the nation.

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