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Last year marked the lowest level of violent crime in Washington, D.C., in more than 30 years. However, President Donald Trump has raised concerns about public safety in the city, teasing a plan that would also target its homeless population.
“I’m going to make our Capital safer and more beautiful than it ever was before,” Trump said on Truth Social on Aug. 10. “The Homeless have to move out, IMMEDIATELY. We will give you places to stay, but FAR from the Capital.”
In a series of social media posts, Trump said he would unveil his initiative on Aug. 11, adding it would address the city’s crime and the “Cleanliness and the General Physical Renovation and Condition of our once beautiful and well maintained Capital.”
The president threatened to “take Federal control” of Washington, D.C., in an Aug. 5 post complaining about crime. The post came after Edward Coristine, a 19-year-old former employee of the Department of Government Efficiency nicknamed “BigBalls,” was assaulted in an attempted carjacking.
Violent crime declined by 35% in D.C. in 2024, according to data compiled by the D.C. Metropolitan Police. The 2024 numbers marked the lowest level of violent crime over 30 years. Homicides dropped by 32%, robberies were down 39%, and armed carjackings were down 53%.
In 2023, homicides spiked to 274 from 203 the previous year, before dropping to 187 in 2024. That is the lowest level since the city had 166 homicides in 2019. There have been 99 homicides in 2025, compared to 112 during the same period last year.
Trump has long denigrated Washington, D.C., which leans heavily Democratic. He also floated taking over governance of the district in February in comments to reporters, complaining about crime and homelessness.
📚 Reading Comprehension Quiz
What was the percentage decrease in armed carjackings in Washington, D.C., from 2023 to 2024 according to the data compiled by the D.C. Metropolitan Police?
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