In the heart of the nation’s capital, there’s a curious bit of irony at play. Washington D.C., a city built on the principles of governance and security, has seen its own backyard become a hotbed of soaring crime rates. Yet, in a seemingly simple act that harkens back to common sense policing, crime has drastically dropped, all thanks to an increased law enforcement presence.
Recent weeks have witnessed a dramatic shift. It seems as if the ghost towns reminiscent of western movie scenes have instead transformed into pleasant neighborhoods. The reason? A significant uptick in law enforcement presence, supported by the National Guard. For those who believe in the power of clear-headed policies, this comes as no surprise. As the crime stats take a nosedive, one could imagine neighborhood residents exchanging bewildered looks over coffee, noting how safety is suddenly becoming fashionable again.
Muriel Bowser, Mayor of D.C., maintains that there has been success, albeit in her distinct interpretation of the term. However, the facts on the ground paint a different picture. The presence of uniformed personnel, both police and National Guard, has been credited for monumental decreases in various crime categories. Carjackings are down by a whopping 86%, robberies have been slashed nearly in half, and a sharp decline in violent crimes has followed. This is not a matter of guesswork; it’s the simple arithmetic of more police equals less crime.
There’s a certain humor in the astonishment expressed by some over this phenomenon. Who would have guessed that placing law enforcement officers in areas riddled with crime would deter said crime? It’s as if people suddenly discovered that umbrellas work when it’s raining. The idea that having the National Guard assist local law enforcement spells disaster is more ruffled feathers than real concern. These are not foreign invaders but neighbors stepping forward to help, lending their presence to bring safety to the streets they walk themselves.
Of course, there’s bound to be a discussion on whether the ongoing involvement of the Guard should become the status quo. The underlying issue here is a systematic decimation of the police force, courtesy of dubious council decisions. Years of reducing the police department’s ranks have finally met their own reckoning. Restoration efforts are thankfully underway, but it will take time to rebuild the robust local law enforcement presence necessary for lasting change. Until then, having those extra sets of eyes in uniform is less about militarization and more about prioritizing citizen safety – a priority that perhaps deserves more applause than it receives.
