Subscribe for free to eliminate ads
Advertisement
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, recently confirmed to the position, has indicated that her office intends to pursue a policy shift that would lower the minimum age at which violent offenders may be charged as adults. Pirro, a former television host and judge, appeared in an interview on Wednesday where she described Washington, D.C.’s escalating violent crime rates as “unacceptable” and outlined potential changes her office may push for under the direction of President Donald Trump.
Advertisementads
Advertisement
The nation’s capital has recorded 99 homicides so far this year, a figure that continues to raise concern among residents and lawmakers alike. While certain officials have suggested crime trends may be stabilizing, Pirro pushed back on that characterization, arguing that crime in the city has become increasingly violent and dangerous.
Advertisement
Carjackings, according to available reports, have seen a 111% increase, drawing renewed scrutiny over how juvenile offenders are treated within the legal system. Pirro stated that under current D.C. policies, minors involved in serious offenses often avoid prosecution as adults and are instead sent to family court, where rehabilitation is the primary focus.
Advertisement
Referencing a recent case involving the assault of a White House intern, Pirro noted that two of the alleged attackers, both 15 years old, had been apprehended but would not be processed through her office due to age restrictions.
Advertisement
Advertisement
According to Pirro, the matter was discussed directly with President Trump, who is said to have emphasized the importance of restoring public safety in the city. She stated that in her view, current D.C. statutes, including the Youth Incarceration Act, have prevented meaningful accountability for repeat violent offenders.
A separate case involving a juvenile who reportedly used an illegal firearm in a bus shooting was cited as an example. Pirro noted that the individual received probation and was advised to attend college, a resolution she believes fails to address the severity of the crime.
Advertisement
Advertisement
Additional concern has been raised over reports that older individuals involved in criminal activity have increasingly recruited younger teens to commit serious offenses, under the assumption that age-related protections will shield them from significant legal consequences.
Pirro characterized the overall situation as one in which violent youth offenders understand the legal boundaries protecting them and act with impunity. Her proposed approach would lower the age of adult criminal responsibility to 14, a move that she believes would deter organized youth crews responsible for rising incidents of carjackings, assaults, and firearm-related offenses.
The D.C. Council, which has maintained Democratic majorities for decades, has faced criticism from Pirro and others who claim that lenient policies have contributed to a breakdown in public order. Whether the proposed reforms will gain traction within the district’s legal and political frameworks remains to be seen.