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Over 240 Arrests Reported in D.C. Under Trump’s Federal Initiative
Officials familiar with the initiative said the D.C. operations are part of a broader federal strategy directed by the White House.
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ROHIT SHARMA - Mon, 18, Aug 2025
- 02:25 EDT
- 30
President Donald Trump. / White House Archives
A White House official said Aug 16 that more than 240 arrests have been made in the District of Columbia since President Donald Trump’s federal law enforcement initiative began on August 7.
During Aug 15 night’s operations, officials reported:
- 52 arrests, including 28 migrants
- 3 illegal firearms seized
- Charges spanning armed robbery, drug distribution, and grand larceny warrants
Since the operation launched, authorities say 38 firearms have been recovered. The numbers more than double the 120 arrests cited earlier in the week by FBI Director Kash Patel.
Homeless encampments and deployment
In addition to arrests, law enforcement reported clearing 25 homeless encampments across the city. Officials noted no arrests or confrontations during those removals.
According to the White House, 22 multi-agency teams—with more than 1,800 personnel—were deployed across all seven D.C. districts Aug. 15 night to target violent offenders and bolster public safety. The D.C. National Guard is also patrolling areas near the National Mall and Union Station. While guardsmen are not making arrests, officials say they remain armed to protect federal property and deter violence.
ALSO READ: Trump wants to extend federal control over Washington police
ICE arrest targets and federal strategy
Officials familiar with the initiative said the D.C. operations are part of a broader federal strategy directed by the White House. President Trump has instructed all federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, DEA, ATF, and Homeland Security, to support Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in reaching a daily target of 3,000 arrests, a benchmark outlined by senior adviser Stephen Miller.
Border crossings at historic lows
At the same time, administration officials note that border crossings have fallen to their lowest levels in decades since January, attributing the decline to a mix of stricter enforcement policies and expanded cooperation with border states.
Expanding Federal Presence
On Aug. 16, West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey directed the West Virginia National Guard to deploy troops to Washington at the Trump administration’s request, further expanding the federal footprint in the capital.
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