DC Mayor Bowser and AG Schwalb Discuss Lawsuit Against Trump's 'Takeover' of MPD

Victory for Home Rule in D.C.

• 🏛️ Mayor Muriel Bowser and Attorney General Brian Schwalb announced a significant legal victory regarding the control of the D.C. Police Department (MPD).
• ⚖️ A judge ruled that under the Home Rule Act, the authority to appoint the chief of police and control local policing rests solely with the mayor and the chief, not the federal government.
• 🚫 The lawsuit aimed to prevent a "hostile takeover" of the MPD by the federal government, specifically challenging efforts to suggest federal appointees were running the department.

Chief Smith Remains in Command

• 👮 Chief Pamela Smith, appointed by the mayor and confirmed by the council, remains the chief of police, in command of over 3,100 officers.
• 📜 The federal government withdrew language that illegally suggested a DEA official was running the MPD, acknowledging the judge's likely ruling against it.
• ✅ This outcome is seen as a crucial win for home rule in the District of Columbia.

Standing Up for D.C. Law

• 🇺🇸 Both Mayor Bowser and AG Schwalb emphasized their commitment to upholding D.C. law, even against the President and the Attorney General.
• 🤝 While local law enforcement has historically collaborated with federal partners, they stressed that a "hostile takeover" is unnecessary and illegal.
• 🎯 The focus remains on driving down crime in the city, with hopes that this legal battle is now resolved.

Federal Requests for MPD Services

• 🚨 The Home Rule Act allows the federal government to request MPD services during emergencies for federal purposes, but these requests must be made to the mayor and comply with D.C. law.
• ❓ Questions arose about MPD enforcing federal rules, such as those related to encampments near federal land or immigration laws, which AG Schwalb stated would be confronted as they arise, ensuring compliance with D.C. laws.
• 🤝 Negotiations with the Justice Department were described as prolonged, with surprise at the issuance of an executive order without prior notice, despite perceived cooperation.