In a significant development following President Donald Trump’s federal takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), Police Chief Pamela Smith has issued an executive order outlining limited cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
The order, released on Thursday, aims to navigate the city’s sanctuary status while addressing heightened crime concerns in the nation’s capital.
The executive order permits MPD officers to assist federal immigration agencies in specific ways, including sharing information about individuals not in MPD custody—such as during routine traffic stops—and providing transportation for federal immigration employees and detained subjects.
This move comes just days after Trump announced the federal intervention on Monday, which included deploying National Guard troops to key areas like Union Station to combat crime and homelessness.
However, the order strictly prohibits officers from making inquiries into a person’s immigration status solely for enforcement purposes.
“Members shall not make inquiries into any person’s immigration status for the purpose of determining whether they have violated the civil immigration laws or for the purpose of enforcing civil immigration laws,” the order states.
Additionally, arrests cannot be made based solely on federal immigration warrants or detainers unless there is an additional criminal warrant or underlying offense.
This policy shift occurs against the backdrop of Washington, D.C.’s longstanding designation as a sanctuary city.
Earlier this year, Mayor Muriel Bowser attempted to end this status, according to reports.
The federal crackdown has already yielded results: On Wednesday night, authorities made 45 arrests, with 29 involving individuals in the country illegally, as multiple federal agencies joined the operation.
Republican Praise and Democratic Opposition
The order and broader federal actions have drawn sharp reactions.
Utah Sen. Mike Lee praised the development on X, stating, “Excellent news.
America’s capital city should not be a sanctuary for lawlessness.”
The White House’s rapid response account echoed this sentiment with a post reading, “MAKE D.C. SAFE AGAIN.”
President Trump, flanked by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Attorney General Pam Bondi, discussed the crime surge in D.C. during a White House briefing on August 11, 2025.
The intervention was largely prompted by a rise in juvenile criminal activity in recent months, which has alarmed residents and officials alike.
Democrats, however, have voiced strong opposition. D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb condemned the federal takeover on X, calling it “unprecedented, unnecessary, and unlawful.”
He noted that violent crime in the District reached historic 30-year lows last year and is down another 26% so far this year, adding, “We are considering all of our options and will do what is necessary to protect the rights and safety of District residents.”
Federal Takeover
The MPD’s new guidelines follow a series of high-profile incidents, including attacks on officers that contributed to the decision for federal involvement.
A police leader previously described how “radical” D.C. officials treated officers “like crap,” highlighting tensions that led to Trump’s actions.
Attorney General Pam Bondi met with Mayor Bowser as National Guard troops were dispatched, signaling a coordinated effort to restore order.
Supporters argue the Constitution backs Trump’s authority in overseeing the capital’s security, with one opinion piece stating, “I support Trump taking control of DC police — the Constitution is on his side.”
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have been actively involved, as evidenced by recent operations in other cities like New York.
In D.C., the focus remains on curbing lawlessness while respecting local policies.
Impact on Residents and Future Outlook
While some D.C. residents and Republicans applaud the crackdown for enhancing safety, critics worry about potential overreach and its effects on immigrant communities.
The order’s emphasis on not enforcing civil immigration laws directly underscores the city’s commitment to its sanctuary principles, even amid federal pressure.
As the situation evolves, officials continue to monitor crime trends, with MPD officers investigating incidents like a recent shooting on August 11, 2025.
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