Homan Critiques Media on Crime Reporting in D.C.

Former border chief Tom Homan expressed his discontent with the media on Monday, suggesting they downplay crime incidents in Washington, D.C.

Recent reports claim that crime in the capital has dropped significantly, with some sources highlighting a 35% reduction in 2024. However, Homan points out that these statistics rely heavily on local police data, and warn that major crimes, particularly felony and aggravated assaults, are often excluded from such reports. This omission may lead to a more favorable portrayal of crime trends since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

“I’ve been in law enforcement for 40 years. I wouldn’t walk through D.C. without a gun,” Homan stated. He challenged any reporters who assert that crime rates are down and safety is up, daring them to take a stroll through D.C. after dark.

When prompted by host Rob Schmidt about those who seem to “spin” crime data as improving, Homan responded, “They also told us the border was secure while we saw thousands crossing every day. They think we’re naive.” He emphasized that anyone familiar with D.C.—whether they work or live there—recognizes the reality of the crime situation.

Homan continued, “I’ve always said the borders are not safe; it’s a historic crisis. They spread lies in hopes that repetition will convince people. But I believe Americans are smarter than that.”

Interestingly, the D.C. Metropolitan Police’s “violent crime” statistics only record certain offenses, including murder, robbery, and assault with deadly weapons. Despite a reported decline in 2024, Homan raised concerns that many violent incidents are not fully accounted for, particularly aggravated assault cases.

The FBI’s data shows a modest 10% drop in overall violent crime for D.C. over the last year, which remains above 2018 levels. Furthermore, numbers indicate that, since 2021, homicide rates continue to surpass those from previous years, with D.C. suffering from a notable increase in assaults.

A study by the Rochester Institute of Technology even ranks D.C. as having the fourth highest homicide rate in the nation for 2024.

In response to the troubling crime events, President Donald Trump has amplified federal law enforcement presence in D.C. following a concerning incident involving administrative staff and carjackings on August 5, and has looked into restructuring the local police department.