Trump Takes Federal Control of Washington DC’s Police Department Amidst Rising Homicide Rate Compared to Latin American Cities

In a press conference on Monday, President Donald Trump expressed concern over Washington D.C.’s rising homicide rate, comparing it to certain Latin American capitals like Bogotá, Mexico City, and Lima. He announced plans to place the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control and deploy 800 National Guard troops with the aim of addressing this issue.

Trump maintained that these measures are part of a larger strategy to reclaim control of cities plagued by violence. “The murder rate in Washington today surpasses some of the world’s most notorious cities,” he said, highlighting that Washington exceeds homicide rates seen in Brasilia, Panama City, and San José.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser voiced concern over the federal intervention, labeling it “alarming” and “unprecedented.” While she anticipated such a move, she emphasized her intention to preserve the city’s autonomy during a subsequent press conference.

Bowser reassured residents that the local government remains operational and committed to maintaining its positive reputation. She has met with Attorney General Pam Bondi, who will reportedly assume delegated authority from Trump to coordinate actions with the city as per an executive order. However, Bowser clarified that no changes have been made to the Metropolitan Police Department’s organizational structure.

Trump’s assertions are backed by a graph indicating a 2024 homicide rate of 27.5 per 100,000 inhabitants in Washington, surpassing Bogotá (15), Panama City (15), San José (13), Mexico City (10), Lima (7.7), and Brasilia (6.8).

Official statistics from various organizations including Mexico’s INEGI, the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Panama, and the government of Brasilia support Trump’s claims regarding Washington’s elevated homicide rate in recent years. However, it is essential to note that this represents only one aspect of the city’s crime rates.

Recent official data reveal a more nuanced picture. According to an analysis by CNN journalist Daniel Dale, Washington has experienced a significant decrease in crime since a spike in 2023, when 274 homicides were recorded – the highest number in over two decades. In 2024, murders dropped to 187, and so far in 2025, they continue to decline. Preliminary data from the Washington Metropolitan Police Department supports this trend, showing an overall decrease in crime this year, mirroring sustained declines seen in other major US cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.