President Donald Trump has activated the National Guard and taken control of Washington, DC’s police department following his declaration of a “criminal emergency” in the U.S. capital. This move comes a day after Trump announced the emergency, citing rising crime rates in the city.

Around 800 National Guard members began arriving in Washington on Tuesday, a step that escalates after the White House ordered federal forces to take over the city’s police department. Trump described Washington as a “lawless city” but did not provide evidence to substantiate this claim. The federal intervention marks an unprecedented use of the 1973 Home Rule Act, which allows the president to assume control of the city’s police for up to 30 days during an emergency.

Trump is the first president to utilize Section 740 of the Act, which allows for such a takeover during emergencies. During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that after the 30-day period, the administration would “reevaluate and reassess” the situation.

Additionally, the White House confirmed that over 850 federal law enforcement officers were deployed in Washington on Monday. These officers arrested 23 individuals overnight on charges including gun and drug crimes, homicide, and fare evasion. The US Park Police also dismantled 70 homeless encampments, urging residents to move to shelters or drug treatment programs, with the possibility of fines or jail time for those who refuse.

Trump’s announcement of a “public safety emergency” also includes the removal of homeless encampments, with the president stating that the effort is part of his broader goal to “take our capital back.”

The move is being closely monitored, as the administration would need approval from both the House and Senate if it seeks to extend the federal takeover beyond the initial 30 days.

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