USA Trump’s Bold D.C. Crime Crackdown Unfolds on National Mall

[webfact]

video screenshot

 

In a stunning move, President Donald Trump has deployed federalised National Guard troops along Washington, D.C.'s National Mall, overnight. This unexpected military spectacle aims to tackle rising crime in the city, according to a source close to the initiative.

 

The operation, beginning overnight and lasting until Thursday morning, is set to reveal a significant military presence, catching both locals and tourists by surprise amidst the museums and monuments. Although historically reserved for inaugurations or emergencies, like the 1992 Los Angeles riots, this mobilisation raises eyebrows due to its dramatic statement on home soil, reported ABC News.

 

Colonel Dave Butler of the Army stated that the Army's role includes providing logistical support and ensuring visibility across key locations. The White House confirmed a substantial deployment that ramped up through the night. This action, as announced by Trump, involves some 800 troops engaging to curb what he branded as "out of control" crime and taking control of the police force.

 

Despite the impressive number of troops, residents are unlikely to see all 800 deployed in their area. Instead, shifts of 100 to 200 will manage duties ranging from logistics to direct law enforcement support, echoing strategies used during critical events like the January 6 riots.

 

Army Col. Larry Doane leads a joint task force that manages this remarkable move. The National Park Service, with its jurisdiction over the Mall, is also involved in this operation, combining military presence with law enforcement aid. The implications are vast, with D.C.'s serene tourist spots now serving as a backdrop for combatting urban issues.

 

This deployment raises questions about its long-term impact and whether such dramatic measures affect the public's perception of safety and authority in the capital. Eyes will remain fixed on how events unfold as tourists and residents awaken to this bold show of force.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from ABC News 2025-08-14