Nearly 400 Arrests Reported Since Trump Declared DC Public Safety Emergency

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Nearly 400 arrests have been made in the nation’s capital since President Donald Trump declared a public safety emergency earlier this month and activated National Guard troops to support local law enforcement, according to Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Weekend Arrests and Seizures

Bondi announced Monday that law enforcement activity over the weekend resulted in 137 arrests and the seizure of 21 illegal firearms.

“Washington, D.C. is getting safer every night thanks to our law enforcement partners,” Bondi posted on X. “In total, there have been nearly 400 arrests—and we are not slowing down. We are committed to making D.C. safe again.”

Expanding Guard Presence

The Trump administration has also ordered the clearing of homeless encampments across the city, citing public safety concerns. At the same time, the presence of National Guard troops continues to expand.

According to officials, hundreds of additional troops are expected to deploy in the coming days, joining units already stationed at high-traffic locations, including Union Station. The increased security footprint is part of the administration’s broader strategy to combat crime and restore order.

Mixed Reactions

The moves have drawn mixed reactions from residents and community leaders. Supporters say the crackdown is making the city safer by targeting violent offenders and removing illegal weapons. Critics argue that the deployment of troops and removal of encampments represent an overreach of federal power and could further strain vulnerable populations.

What’s Next

The administration has not indicated how long the public safety emergency and troop deployment will remain in effect. For now, law enforcement agencies say operations will continue with an emphasis on curbing gun violence, breaking up encampments, and maintaining visible patrols across the city.