There is no public safety emergency warranting the deployment of the National Guard on DC streets or the federalization of the city’s police force. Contrary to federal officials’ statements otherwise, the government’s own data shows violent crime has sharply declined since 2023 and, as of this past January, had dropped to a 30-year low. With no genuine justification, the moves announced today will weaponize federal and military power against Black and Latino communities and gut DC residents’ right to self-governance.

We all want less crime. Enforcement theatrics will not accomplish that aim. But evidence-based approaches to public safety exist; and if they receive proper funding, they work. When we support violence interrupters, we empower individuals to defuse conflicts before they escalate. Strengthening robust anti-poverty programs offer families stability, while unarmed civilian investigators can address property crimes and reentry programs reduce recidivism. Yet, the Administration has severely cut programs employing these proven strategies, with devastating ramifications for DC. In addition, Congress continues to withhold more than a billion dollars of DC’s own funds. This continues to have direct consequences for children—threatening access to transit, food, and education.

It is inevitable that an increase in Draconian policing—especially through the unnecessary deployment of military forces and this Justice Department’s direct control over local police—will lead to police abuses. The Washington Lawyers’ Committee is watching. We stand ready to do what is necessary to protect the civil rights of DC residents, families and communities.