Local Police Seek Federal Support for D.C. Safety
In Washington, D.C., local law enforcement officials believe that President Donald Trump’s involvement could enhance safety and security in the area. Residents conveyed their thoughts to the Daily Caller News Foundation.
Tuesday afternoon, many low-income residents from District 7 expressed concerns about crime, labeling their area as one of the more dangerous parts of the city. A significant number of those surveyed stated that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) needed federal assistance, with suggestions that federal agents or national security forces could help improve safety.
These comments stood in contrast to other residents who previously said that they didn’t perceive a significant crime issue, especially near the heavily trafficked National Mall.
Lavelle Thompson, a local resident, mentioned, “Since Trump initiated his policies, the area has felt safer. There should be more police presence around stores and restaurants.” He highlighted the importance of visible law enforcement to deter crime.
The Trump administration reported over 1,000 arrests in D.C., particularly in the high-crime wards 7 and 8, since the incorporation of federal support in early August.
Another resident, identifying himself as Walter, noted the change, saying, “It’s nice to see some results, but people are hesitant to go out. They know what’s been going on.” He expressed a reluctance to report crimes out of fear for his family’s safety, especially given concerns about potential retaliation from criminals.
Meanwhile, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser acknowledged Trump’s actions, citing a reduction in carjackings due to the increase in federal officers. However, some residents, like Wilhelmina Rochester, argued that more assistance is desperately needed in their neighborhood, sharing her own experiences of crime over her 15 years living in Southeast D.C.
“You’d be lucky to see a police officer around,” Rochester stated, reflecting on how rare it is to find law enforcement in her area unless there’s a specific event taking place.
Rochester also shared her view that the laws in D.C. are too lenient on juvenile offenders, highlighting how young people are often linked to a significant portion of local robberies and carjackings. She believes stronger penalties are necessary to address this issue effectively.
Tony Neal, a longtime resident of the city, voiced concerns about the rising crime rates since the pandemic began. He feels that while some federal intervention may be warranted, local officials should still oversee community issues to maintain a balance.
Responses varied among the residents, with some critiquing Trump’s federal approach, labeling him as dictatorial and opposing the arrests for minor drug offenses. “These offenses aren’t the same as the major crimes happening elsewhere,” one resident remarked.
