US President Donald Trump has recently intensified his critique of crime rates in Washington, DC. He claims the city now has a homicide rate that surpasses some major Latin American capitals, like Bogotá and Mexico City.
During a press conference, Trump stated his intention to place the Metropolitan Police Department under federal control and to deploy 800 National Guard troops to “take back the city.” He emphasized, “The murder rate in Washington today is higher than that of Bogotá, Colombia; Mexico City, or some of the places that you hear about as being the worst places on Earth.”
This push to “liberate” Washington is part of a broader initiative Trump claims aims to reclaim control in cities he believes face rising violence. He remarked, “All is double or triple; so you want to live in places like that? I don’t think so.”
In response, Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser described Trump’s decision as “alarming and unprecedented.” She acknowledged the seriousness of the situation but warned against minimizing the city’s autonomy. Bowser reassured residents that local government operations remain strong and had engaged with Attorney General Pam Bondi for necessary coordination.
Trump’s statements are based on data showing a homicide rate of 27.5 per 100,000 residents in Washington, outpacing Bogotá (15) and Mexico City (10), according to various official sources.
Yet, this comparison needs a closer look. Recent reports indicate crime in Washington has been declining. Homicides peaked in 2023 at 274 but dropped significantly to 187 in 2024. Through July 2025, homicides dropped another 34% from the previous year, and overall crime rates have decreased as well. This trend mirrors declines in other major cities such as New York and Los Angeles.
However, it’s crucial to understand that crime isn’t just about homicides. The crime landscape is complex, and many factors come into play. An expert in urban violence, Dr. Angela Hawken, points out that addressing crime requires looking beyond just numbers. Effective community engagement and long-term policies can drastically change the environment.
In summary, while Trump’s statements about rising crime in Washington may highlight important concerns, the full picture shows a community in transition, grappling with both challenges and improvements.
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