The NPR Politics Podcast Trump Says D.C. Is Now ‘Crime Free.’ What’s The Reality?
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Sep 3, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Alex Koma, a Senior Politics Reporter at WAMU, dives into the complex realities of crime in D.C., countering President Trump's claims of a "crime-free zone". They explore the implications of the increased federal presence and its impact on local governance. Koma discusses residents' mixed feelings about federal involvement in local crime and the need for community-focused solutions over oversight. Additionally, the podcast touches on homelessness and the challenges of balancing local authority with federal initiatives.
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Court Data Shows Mix Of Serious And Minor Charges
- About 1,000 people went through D.C. Superior Court in the first two weeks after federalization and ~20% faced felony charges.
- Many other cases were misdemeanors, traffic offenses, warrants, or later dropped by prosecutors.
Federal Charging Focuses On Gun, Drug, And Resistance Cases
- Federal prosecutions in D.C. include many gun/drug cases and numerous charges for impeding or resisting officers.
- Authorities are treating lower-level confrontations with federal agents as serious federal offenses.
Everyday Confrontations Escalate To Federal Cases
- Reporters documented small incidents elevated to federal charges, like a man throwing a sub sandwich at a federal officer.
- Another person allegedly spat at National Guard members by Union Station and faced federal arrest.