President Donald Trump activated National Guard troops and took control of Washington, DC’s police department a day after declaring a “criminal emergency” in the U.S. capital. This move aims to reduce rising crime rates in the city, which Trump described as “lawless,” although no evidence was provided to support this claim.
🔥TRUMP TAKES BACK THE CAPITAL🔥
Today, President Trump invoked Section 740 of the D.C. Home Rule Act, seizing control of the Metropolitan Police Department, deploying the National Guard, and vowing to “liberate” Washington, D.C.
For the first time in modern history, a… pic.twitter.com/5U2FAMgfVd
— Laura Aboli Official (@LauraAboli_X) August 11, 2025
800 National Guard Troops Deployed
🚨 BREAKING: National Guard troops are now deployed in Washington, D.C. after President Trump federalized the Metropolitan Police Department.
Troops have been spotted at the D.C. Armory as security steps up across the capital.
LFG boys — streets are getting locked down. pic.twitter.com/XWGCLyxAZN
— Sarcasm Scoop (@sarcasm_scoop) August 12, 2025
Starting Tuesday, around 800 National Guard members began arriving in Washington, ramping up federal law enforcement presence. The White House ordered federal forces to take over the city’s police department under the 1973 Home Rule Act, allowing the president to assume control of the police for up to 30 days during emergencies.
Trump is the first president to use Section 740 of this law to take over Washington’s police force temporarily.
White House Plans to Reassess After 30 Days
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing that the administration would “reevaluate and reassess and make further decisions” after the 30-day period ends. Any extension of the police takeover would require approval from both the House and Senate.
‘Crime Emergency’ Actions and Arrests
On Monday, about 850 federal officers were deployed in Washington, leading to 23 arrests overnight, including charges for gun and drug crimes, drunk driving, subway fare evasion, and homicide, Leavitt reported.
Additionally, the US Park Police removed 70 homeless encampments. Residents were given options to leave, enter shelters, or seek drug treatment. Those refusing may face fines or jail time.
Why the National Guard Was Deployed
Trump declared a “public safety emergency” in Washington, DC, and announced plans to remove homeless encampments. At a press conference alongside top officials, he said this was part of an effort to “take our capital back” and restore order.
