Justice Department Reinforces Law Enforcement Resources to Combat Violent Crime and Carjackings in Washington, D.C.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland’s Statement

In a resolute move to confront the persistent issue of violent crime in Washington, D.C., Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a significant surge in law enforcement tools and resources. Recognizing the need for continued progress in reducing violent crime, Garland emphasized the department’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every community. This initiative aims to dismantle criminal networks and organizations that fuel violence within the nation’s capital.

U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves’ Perspective

U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves of the District of Columbia echoed the department’s determination in tackling violent crime. He highlighted the ongoing efforts to surgically target and prosecute individuals responsible for driving violence within the community. The influx of resources will enable the expansion of these endeavors and the removal of even more perpetrators from the streets.

Introduction of the Gun Violence Analytic Cell (GVAC)

To bolster the fight against violent crime and carjackings, a multi-component Gun Violence Analytic Cell (GVAC) will be established. Led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in collaboration with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), GVAC will harness data analytics to identify and prioritize federal investigations that directly target violent crime and carjackings.

U.S. Attorney’s Office Achievements

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia has already demonstrated its dedication to combating violent crime through the prosecution of numerous cases. Recently, five alleged fentanyl traffickers were charged, three of whom faced additional charges for firearms violations related to drug trafficking. This case resulted from a year-long multiagency investigation into narcotics distribution points in Southeast Washington, D.C.

Resource Augmentation for Prosecution

To accommodate the increased workload stemming from GVAC and other initiatives, federal prosecutors from the Justice Department’s Criminal Division will be detailed to work on violent crime cases in D.C. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia will reassign prosecutors within the Superior Court docket to focus specifically on carjacking, lethal, and non-lethal firearms cases.

Department-Wide Violent Crime Reduction Strategy

This surge in resources aligns with the department’s comprehensive Violent Crime Reduction Strategy announced by Attorney General Garland in May 2021. This strategy aims to address the concerning spike in violent crime during the pandemic. Every U.S. Attorney’s Office across the country has collaborated with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to develop and implement district-specific violent crime reduction strategies.

Strengthening Project Safe Neighborhoods and National Public Safety Partnership

The department has also focused on bolstering its national Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative and the National Public Safety Partnership. These initiatives provide Department tools and expertise to over 50 specific local law enforcement agencies, empowering them to effectively combat violent crime within their communities.

Tailoring Solutions to Community Needs

Recognizing that effective anti-violent crime strategies must be tailored to the unique needs of individual communities, the department emphasizes the importance of developing these strategies in collaboration with the communities themselves. This collaborative approach ensures that solutions are comprehensive, responsive, and sustainable.

Conclusion: A United Front Against Violent Crime

The Justice Department’s surge in law enforcement resources in Washington, D.C., reflects its unwavering commitment to combating violent crime and carjackings. Through the establishment of GVAC, the allocation of additional prosecutors, and the strengthening of existing initiatives, the department aims to dismantle criminal networks, prosecute offenders, and restore safety and security to communities. This initiative underscores the department’s dedication to working hand-in-hand with local law enforcement agencies and community partners to create safer neighborhoods and a just and equitable society for all.