Trump threatens to 'federalize' d. C. Over youth violence and crime surge
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Trump threatens to ‘federalize’ D.C. over youth violence and crime surge

Washington, D.C. – President Donald Trump posted a fiery message on social media Wednesday, blasting the state of public safety in Washington, D.C., and threatening to exert federal power over the city if violent crime continues.

In a lengthy post, Trump claimed that crime in the nation’s capital is “totally out of control,” citing attacks by teenagers and gang members as young as 14. He alleged that youths are “randomly attacking, mugging, maiming, and shooting innocent citizens,” emboldened by lenient laws and a lack of accountability.

Calling for a shift in policy, Trump demanded that D.C. begin prosecuting minors as adults starting at age 14, and stated that young offenders should be “locked up for a long time.” He referenced a recent incident in which an unnamed victim was reportedly beaten by a group of teens, describing the attack as “merciless.”

Trump further argued that Washington must be safe, clean, and orderly — not only for Americans but “for the world to see.” If city leadership fails to act, Trump warned, “we will have no choice but to take Federal control of the City,” suggesting he would move to override local authority and bring Washington under direct federal oversight.

He ended the post by saying that if crime continues, he would “exert [his] powers” and “FEDERALIZE this City,” concluding with his signature slogan: “MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

This comes after a federal worker was assaulted and others have been victims of robbings and carjackings in recent months.

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Key Points

  • Trump posted a message calling for minors in D.C. to be prosecuted as adults starting at age 14
  • He claimed youth crime is out of control and threatened to “federalize” the city if it continues
  • The former president said he would use his powers to take control of D.C. if local leaders fail to act
Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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