WASHINGTON, D.C. — A series of arrests made by U.S. Park Police in Dupont Circle and Logan Circle on Tuesday evening has stirred controversy and concern among residents and social media users. The enforcement actions, captured in part on video, have reignited debates over the policing of public spaces in the District.
Arrests for Public Consumption in Federal Parks
According to U.S. Park Police, a total of four individuals were arrested—three for possession of open alcohol containers and one for publicly smoking marijuana. While possession of marijuana is legal in D.C., smoking it in public spaces, especially on federal land, remains illegal and can result in misdemeanor charges or fines up to $500.
The arrests occurred in Dupont Circle and Logan Circle, both of which are federally maintained parks under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service.
Viral Video Sparks Outcry
A TikTok user known as MaiFlower posted a video from the scene, showing plainclothes officers exiting an unmarked vehicle after arresting a man for smoking marijuana in the park. The clip quickly went viral, amassing thousands of views and sparking heated discussions online.
“This is like a quiet area. The fact that they would arrest some random guy for smoking weed… we literally live in 1984,” she said in the video.
The footage and reactions have fueled frustration among some residents, who argue that the response was disproportionate and disruptive for minor, non-violent infractions.
Federal Enforcement and Executive Order
In response to inquiries, U.S. Park Police confirmed the arrests and stated that officers were enforcing federal laws under the scope of an executive order signed in March 2020 by former President Donald Trump. That order established a task force aimed at improving public safety and beautification in the nation’s capital.
Since that order went into effect, Park Police report having made 468 arrests across D.C. parks, citing their mission to ensure clean, safe, and lawful use of public spaces.
Residents Voice Concerns Over Priorities
While the police defend the arrests as part of routine enforcement of federal laws, many residents and social media users question the priorities of law enforcement in areas known for casual recreation and peaceful gathering.
Some argue that the presence of plainclothes officers in unmarked vehicles conducting arrests for marijuana and alcohol use feels like an overreach, especially in a city where public attitudes toward cannabis have significantly shifted in recent years.
As the debate continues, community members are calling for greater clarity around the enforcement of federal laws in D.C. parks and are urging local and federal leaders to prioritize transparency, fairness, and proportionality in public safety measures.
Leave a Reply