In the wake of an aggressive assault on a Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) employee, President Donald Trump has suggested a federal takeover of Washington, D.C., as a potential solution to what he perceives as a surge in lawlessness within the nation's capital. The incident, involving Edward Coristine—known online as "Big Balls"—occurred early Sunday morning when he reportedly intervened in a carjacking attempt.
The distressing event unfolded around 3:00 a.m. on Swann Street NW when Coristine, in an act of valor, stepped in to assist a woman being assaulted by a group of young men. Despite his courageous efforts, he sustained severe injuries, including a concussion. The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed the altercation and reported the arrest of two 15-year-old suspects from Hyattsville, Maryland, who are now facing charges of unarmed carjacking.
President Trump took to his Truth Social platform to express his dismay at the current crime situation in D.C., particularly criticizing the treatment of juvenile offenders and the perceived leniency afforded to them by the local criminal justice system. "They are not afraid of Law Enforcement because they know nothing ever happens to them, but it's going to happen now! The Law in D.C. must be changed to prosecute these 'minors' as adults," Trump stated, indicating a more stringent approach to juvenile crimes.
The president's remarks gained further momentum when Elon Musk, former chief of DOGE, corroborated the story and advocated for a federal response via a Twitter post. This public support from Musk, coupled with the president's stern warning to D.C. leadership, illustrates a growing frustration with urban crime and the governance of the District.
The attack on Coristine, who has gained social media acclaim for his work in exposing governmental waste and fraud, has struck a chord nationally, bringing to light the broader issues of public safety and criminal justice in urban centers. D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb responded to the incident, underscoring the commitment to prosecute juveniles who commit violent acts, although he refrained from commenting on the specifics of the case.
As the story develops, the condition of Coristine remains a topic of concern, with online reports indicating his expected recovery from the attack. The incident has sparked a debate over the efficacy of local governance and the potential necessity for federal involvement in restoring order to the District of Columbia.