D.C. Sees Historic Drop in Violent Crime Amid Federal Crackdown, U.S. Attorney Says
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Violent crime in the nation’s capital has fallen dramatically over the past year, with prosecutions reaching unprecedented levels, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro announced Tuesday. Speaking at a press conference, Pirro highlighted the impact of President Donald Trump’s initiative to bolster federal law enforcement efforts in the District, calling it a “turning point” in the fight against crime.
“We are prosecuting crime in the District like never before,” Pirro declared, noting that fewer than 10% of criminal cases now go unprosecuted, a stark contrast to the nearly 70% under the previous administration. “For the first time in years, violent offenders are being prosecuted aggressively instead of being released back onto the streets.”
These remarks came shortly after the U.S. Marshals Service reported that the Operation Make D.C. Safe & Beautiful Task Force had arrested more than 8,152 violent fugitives by the end of 2025. Among those arrested were 20 individuals charged with homicide, 1,343 for narcotics offenses, 633 for weapons violations, 29 for sex offenses, and 48 known gang members. The task force also confiscated 856 firearms, removing them from potential use in violent crimes.
“As a result of the surge to date, there have been 8,406 arrests and 856 guns taken off the street, which prevents them from being used in a homicide or an assault with a deadly weapon,” Pirro said.
Crime statistics underscore the effectiveness of the federal partnership. Homicides have dropped by 60%, robberies by 49%, and carjackings by 68%, contributing to an overall crime reduction of 32% in Washington, D.C. These figures represent some of the most significant year-over-year improvements in recent memory.
The success of the task force and increased prosecutions come as part of a broader federal law enforcement surge initiated by President Trump, who has prioritized law and order in the capital. Pirro credited the president’s “unwavering commitment” and the infusion of additional agents and advanced investigative tools for transforming the city’s public safety landscape.
“His surge in federal law enforcement resources, bolstering our teams with additional agents, advanced tools, and a no-nonsense mandate has been nothing short of transformative for the people in the District,” Pirro said.
Federal efforts are coordinated closely with local agencies, including the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, ensuring that violent offenders face real consequences. Pirro emphasized that the enhanced federal presence has reversed years of leniency and under-prosecution.
“Prosecution rates are at historic highs in the district,” she said. “Crime is coming down in D.C. because we are holding offenders accountable.”
The initiative aligns with broader Department of Justice priorities under the current administration to reduce violent crime nationwide. According to the Department of Justice, such task forces leverage federal resources and expertise to target fugitives and repeat offenders who contribute disproportionately to violent crime.
Community leaders and residents have expressed cautious optimism about the improvements. While challenges remain, the data suggest that sustained federal engagement can make a measurable difference in urban crime rates.
As the city moves into 2026, Pirro vowed to maintain the momentum. “We will continue prosecuting crime with real consequences, real cases, and real accountability,” she said. “The people of Washington deserve nothing less.”
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