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2w ago

Trump Federalizes D.C. Police, Mandates Shelter-Or-Jail for Homeless

The White House invoked the D.C. Home Rule Act to assume local police powers under a shelter-or-jail ultimatum for homeless residents.

Stephanie W., 28, who is homeless, rests on a foam mattress as a United States Park Police vehicle drives past, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in northwest Washington near the Kennedy Center. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
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Caroline McIntyre, left, who is homeless, carries her belongings past the Kennedy Center, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in northwest Washington, as President Donald Trump makes an appearance there. She says her tent and belongings were taken from her last month in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
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Overview

  • President Trump invoked the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to federalize the Metropolitan Police Department and deploy roughly 800 National Guard and federal agents for a citywide enforcement operation.
  • Unhoused individuals will be offered shelter or addiction and mental health services and face fines or jail if they refuse, according to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt.
  • U.S. Park Police have cleared about 70 homeless encampments, with only two federal park sites remaining to be removed this week.
  • Advocates and city officials warn that D.C. has as few as 60 open shelter beds available, creating a severe housing shortfall for displaced people.
  • Legal challenges are expected over potential federal overreach under the Home Rule Act and civil rights issues raised by a Supreme Court precedent permitting fines or arrests for sleeping outdoors when shelter is unavailable.