The deployment of the National Guard in Washington, D.C. has led to a significant decrease in crime rates, contradicting initial skepticism from locals. According to data, carjackings have decreased by 83%, robberies by 46%, and car thefts by 21%. Violent crime is also down 22%.
Sgt. Betsy Smith of the National Police Association attributes this success to federal assistance being crucial for under-staffed police departments like Washington’s. “More police generally equals less crime,” she said.
In contrast, Baltimore residents are divided on the potential deployment of the National Guard. Some fear it will lead to war, while others see it as a solution to their city’s crime problems. Sgt. Smith believes that federal help could lead to similar crime reductions in Baltimore, citing its ongoing federal oversight since 2018.
Source: https://foxbaltimore.com/news/city-in-crisis/national-guards-presence-slashes-dc-crime-rates-with-seven-days-homicide-free