Trump’s D.C. Police Takeover Reaches Its End, But Federal Presence Remains

September 10, 2025

President Donald Trump's 30-day emergency order giving him control over Washington, D.C.'s police is set to expire at midnight Thursday, potentially ending a significant intervention into local governance since the 1973 Home Rule Act. The August 11 declaration, which Trump justified by claiming a "crime emergency" in the capital, has been limited in scope by city officials and courts. During the federal operation, crime reportedly dropped 15% overall compared to the previous year, including a 39% decline in violent crime, though over 1,600 people were arrested with 80% facing minor charges.

Who is affected

Washington, D.C. residents who experienced increased policing, checkpoints, and immigration enforcement
The 1,600+ people arrested during the federal operation
Immigrant communities targeted by increased cooperation between MPD and ICE
D.C. local government officials whose authority was overridden
Metropolitan Police Department officers who worked under federal direction

What action is being taken

Federal agents are continuing to conduct immigration raids and patrols in D.C. neighborhoods
National Guard troops from D.C. and eight Republican-led states remain deployed in the city
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb is pursuing legal challenges against federal intervention
Democrats in Congress are introducing legislation to grant D.C. full control over its police and National Guard
House Republicans are considering bills to tighten sentencing laws and restrict the D.C. Council's authority on criminal justice

Why it matters

The federal takeover represents one of the most significant interventions in D.C.'s self-governance since Congress passed the Home Rule Act in 1973
The operation affected daily life for residents, with Councilmember Nadeau stating residents are "afraid, hesitant to go out & to work"
While crime statistics showed a 15% overall decrease during the operation, the tactics have raised concerns about residents' trust in local policing
The precedent could affect other cities, with Attorney General Schwalb warning, "It's D.C. today but could be any other city tomorrow"
The situation highlights the ongoing struggle for D.C.'s self-governance and autonomy from federal control

What's next

D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson predicts a "slow and gradual transition" rather than an immediate change in policing practices
If the emergency order lapses, MPD would no longer be compelled to share information with Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Chief Pamela Smith's order permitting limited cooperation with federal immigration authorities would remain in effect

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer