(NewsNation) — More than 450 people have been arrested since the Trump administration’s federal takeover in Washington, D.C., began last week, a White House official confirmed to NewsNation on Tuesday.
As of Aug. 7, three of the arrests involved alleged gang members, and a total of 68 firearms have been seized, the official said.
Trump adds firepower to National Guard presence in DC
On Monday night alone, 52 arrests were reported, including an alleged MS-13 gang member with previous convictions for DWI and drug possession, according to the White House official. Nine illegal firearms were also reportedly seized.
Other charges issued Monday include:
Assault with a deadly weapon
Federal parole violation
Murder
Outstanding warrant for attempted murder
Assault on a federal law enforcement officer
Felony assault
Carrying a pistol without a license
The Army said the National Guard was not making any arrests at this time and would only carry weapons if necessary. Monday’s operations involved more than 1,970 law enforcement participants, the White House official said.
National Guard in DC ‘may be armed’ amid Trump’s crime crackdown
Nearly half of arrests not relating to immigration occurred in high-crime areas, the official said, countering reports suggesting the operation was not focused on such neighborhoods.
Four homeless encampments were cleared Monday. So far, 48 homeless encampments have been removed by law enforcement, and the district’s local police department is coordinating further efforts with city officials, the official said.
