Teens Appear in Court After Attack on DOGE Employee Gains National Attention

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Two 15-year-olds accused of taking part in a violent assault on a former Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employee earlier this month made their first appearance in juvenile court on Tuesday.

Details of the Incident

According to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), the attack happened around 3 a.m. in the 1400 block of Swann Street NW in Logan Circle. Investigators said the 19-year-old victim, who previously worked at DOGE, was confronted by a group of at least 10 juveniles.

The victim told police that he pushed his significant other into a car to keep them safe as the group threatened to steal the vehicle. At that point, several juveniles allegedly began assaulting him.

Arrests and Charges

Following the investigation, police arrested two suspects, a 15-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl, both from Hyattsville, Maryland. The pair were charged with unarmed carjacking. Authorities have not released their names due to their age.

Case Draws Political Spotlight

The case attracted national attention when former President Donald Trump posted about the incident on his Truth Social platform, linking the assault to broader public safety concerns in Washington, D.C.

Shortly after his post, Trump announced an emergency federal takeover of the MPD, further intensifying the political debate over crime and law enforcement in the District.

Court Ruling and Conditions

During Tuesday’s juvenile court hearing, the D.C. Office of the Attorney General requested that both teens remain in detention. However, according to sources cited by ABC News, the judge chose a different course.

The 15-year-old boy was placed on home detention.
The 15-year-old girl was ordered to a youth home shelter.

Both face strict conditions, including a 24/7 curfew, mandatory school attendance, and electronic monitoring.

Their next court appearance has not yet been scheduled.

Community and Legal Response

The case highlights ongoing concerns about juvenile crime in the city and has sparked debate about how the justice system should handle young offenders accused of violent acts. While prosecutors pushed for stricter detention, the judge’s decision reflected an alternative approach emphasizing structured supervision.

Meanwhile, residents of Logan Circle expressed frustration over recurring incidents of youth violence in the area. Some said the case underscores the need for stronger prevention programs, while others support harsher penalties for offenders.

What’s Next

The investigation into the larger group of juveniles allegedly involved in the attack remains active. Police have not announced additional arrests but continue to seek information from the public.

As the two 15-year-olds await their next court date, their case will remain under close watch—both locally and nationally—given its ties to the federal government’s heightened role in policing Washington, D.C.