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However, not all numbers point to improvement. Assaults with weapons rose 14%, burglaries climbed 6%, and two homicides occurred during the same period — proof, critics argue, that enforcement alone cannot resolve deeper social issues.
Federal authorities also intensified immigration operations. ICE reported 300 arrests of undocumented individuals since August 7 — a sharp increase from the usual 12 per week. Officials claim this reflects broader efforts to remove “criminal elements,” though community groups call it excessive.
Supporters of Trump’s move praise it as decisive action to protect citizens and stabilize neighborhoods long plagued by crime. They credit the visible federal presence with curbing lawlessness and boosting police morale.
Opponents, however, say the strategy risks eroding local autonomy and fostering fear among vulnerable populations. Civil rights advocates have already called for oversight of arrests and detentions.
As Washington adjusts to new federal control, its residents remain divided — caught between statistics and lived reality.