Washington, DC – Throughout the Memorial Day weekend, Mayor Bowser engaged senior Administration officials to identify, mobilize, and deploy additional public safety resources in areas of Wards 7 and 8 experiencing spikes in violent crime. Today, Mayor Bowser is asking again for the public’s assistance in obtaining justice for victims of senseless violence.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of those we have lost to violence,” said Mayor Bowser. “Over the weekend, we deployed additional police and non-law enforcement resources to communities in Wards 7 and 8 experiencing an increase in violence. While an enhanced police presence can help keep residents safe, we know that policing alone will not put a permanent stop to the violence in our communities. We ask residents to partner with us by reporting any criminal activity and send a clear message: violence will not be tolerated.”
Beginning Saturday, the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) increased its staffing levels by nearly 25 percent in the Sixth and Seventh Districts, adding additional officers to its evening and overnight shifts and additional personnel from the Narcotics and Special Investigation Division, the Special Operations Division, and the Homeland Security Bureau, as well as increased helicopter patrols.
The Bowser Administration has also deployed significant resources from non-law enforcement agencies to neighborhoods, recreation centers, and pools in Wards 5, 7, and 8, including the Safer Stronger Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services’ Credible Messengers, and the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Roving Leaders.
Additionally, the Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services has conducted citywide check-ins with all individuals under its supervision. The Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency, which oversees all adults on supervised release, will also conduct check-ins this week with individuals on probation and parole.
Residents with information about any violent crimes or illegal guns are encouraged to call (202) 727-9099 or text 50411. MPD offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for any homicide committed in the District of Columbia. Tips can be presented anonymously. We appreciate those who have come forward and ask others to do the same. Together, we will demonstrate that we have no tolerance for illegal guns and the violence they bring.