US President Donald Trump ordered a federal takeover of Washington police. As a result, all 800 National Guard troops are now in the city, the Pentagon confirmed Thursday.

Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson said, "As of today, all 800 Army and Air National Guardsmen are mobilised, as part of Joint Task Force DC, and they are now here in our capital."

Furthermore, the troops will support the DC Metropolitan Police and federal law enforcement. Wilson added, "They will assist… with monument security, community safety patrols, protecting federal facilities and officers," and manage traffic control posts.

In addition, Wilson said the Guard will remain in DC "until law and order has been restored in the District, as determined by the president."

Federal Takeover Sparks Debate

Trump announced the takeover on Monday and vowed, "to take our capital back." This follows his declaration of a “criminal emergency” in Washington, DC.

While some conservatives backed the move, critics highlighted DC police data. Violent crimes—including homicide and assault—have fallen sharply in 2024 after pandemic-era spikes.

Notably, this is the first time since 1965 that a US president deployed the National Guard against a state governor’s wishes. Usually, governors command the National Guard. However, in Washington, the troops report directly to the president.

Arrests and Operations

The White House reported 45 arrests on Wednesday night, including 29 undocumented individuals. In addition, over 1,650 personnel now participate in the operation.

Although the National Guard can temporarily detain people, they cannot make arrests, Pentagon spokesperson Wilson confirmed.