Two 15-Year-Olds Appear in Court After Attack on DOGE Employee

WASHINGTON, D.C. (7News) — Two juveniles accused of participating in a violent attack on a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employee earlier this month faced a judge in juvenile court on Wednesday.

Early-Morning Assault in Logan Circle

The incident occurred around 3 a.m. in the 1400 block of Swann Street NW, according to the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Authorities said the assault involved at least 10 juveniles.

The 19-year-old victim, a former DOGE employee, told police he was targeted while trying to protect his partner. He recalled pushing his significant other into a vehicle for safety when the group confronted him and demanded the car. The suspects then began beating him, leaving the victim injured.

Arrests and Charges

Police arrested two suspects, both 15 years old — a boy and a girl from Hyattsville, Maryland. They have been charged with unarmed carjacking, a serious offense under D.C. law.

Investigators continue to search for additional suspects who may have been involved in the group attack.

National Spotlight After Trump’s Post

The case drew nationwide attention after former President Donald Trump commented on the assault in a Truth Social post. Shortly afterward, Trump announced he was taking emergency federal control of MPD, a move that has sparked debate about the District’s autonomy and law enforcement authority.

SEE ALSO | Trump will patrol D.C. streets with federal law enforcement Thursday evening

Court Ruling and Detention Conditions

During the hearing, the District of Columbia’s Office of the Attorney General asked the court to keep both teenagers detained. However, the judge issued a different ruling.

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

Both juveniles are subject to strict conditions, including a 24/7 curfew, mandatory school attendance, and electronic monitoring.

What’s Next

Authorities said the case remains under investigation, with additional arrests possible. The next court date for the two juveniles has not yet been scheduled.

Meanwhile, the victim is recovering from his injuries. Local leaders say the attack highlights ongoing concerns about youth-involved crime in the District and the challenges of balancing accountability with rehabilitation in the juvenile justice system.