The Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force is marking its first anniversary, reporting more than 16,000 arrests since its launch in August 2025. The initiative, spearheaded by the Trump administration's focus on law and order, also claims the seizure of thousands of illegal drugs and firearms, and the apprehension of dangerous offenders.
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the task force, which brought together federal, state, and local law enforcement, has yielded "extraordinary results" in the nation's capital. According to figures provided by a White House official, the operation has led to the arrest of 35 homicide suspects, over 100 known gang members, and more than 3,200 narcotics arrests. Additionally, nearly 2,000 illegal guns were seized, and 25 missing children were located.
White House spokesperson Lauren Bis credited the task force with transforming the city into a safer environment, stating, "The President’s Safe and Beautiful Task Force have made more than 16,000 arrests including murderers, sex offenders, drug traffickers, and other violent criminals."
The task force was established following a crime emergency declared by President Trump in Washington, D.C., and the deployment of National Guard troops, a move that drew criticism from some Democratic officials. The operation intensified after a series of high-profile violent crimes in mid-2025, including the killing of a congressional intern.
U.S. Marshals Service Director Gadyaces Serralta emphasized the collaborative effort, saying, "When law enforcement works together, the impact is exponential. The D.C. Safe and Beautiful Task Force is proof of that the whole-of-government approach works."
The increased federal law enforcement presence, including hundreds of federal agents and National Guard troops, was met with protests and objections from some local leaders, including Mayor Muriel Bowser, who questioned the legality of using the National Guard for local policing.
In November 2025, two National Guard members were attacked in downtown D.C., resulting in the death of Spc. Sarah Beckstrom and critical injury to Sgt. Andrew Wolfe. Brigadier General Leland D. Blanchard II of the District of Columbia National Guard acknowledged the sacrifices made by Guardsmen and law enforcement partners in the mission's legacy.
"We honor them by carrying the work forward -united in purpose, steadfast in service, and committed to protect the people of Washington, D.C.," Blanchard stated.