Washington, August 14: The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has begun dismantling homeless encampments across Washington, DC, as part of a wider federal takeover of the capital’s policing and crime policy.
Video posted on X by a rapid response force on Thursday showed an earth mover clearing debris from a deserted encampment and dumping it into a garbage site. “President Trump promised to make our nation’s capital safe and beautiful again — and he is delivering,” the post said.
Trump last week declared a “criminal emergency” in Washington and assumed federal control of the city’s police department, vowing to relocate homeless people “far from the Capital.” He has not disclosed where they will be moved but said shelter would be provided.
Homeless residents were seen packing belongings near the Institute of Peace, the Associated Press reported. No forcible removals have been carried out.
Deputy Mayor Wayne Turnage said the National Park Service and city officials are closing sites on both federal and district land, describing the process as “very complex” and involving individuals who have been “marginalised.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said homeless people would be offered shelter, addiction treatment or mental health services, but warned that refusal to comply could lead to fines or jail time.
