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ABC: Trump 'Baselessly' Referred to Cooked D.C. Crime Data as 'Phony' - Conservative Angle

conservativeangle.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 4:19:37 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Media Coverage & Press Relations, Presidential Campaigns, State Politics & Governors

In the latest instance in an ongoing series, ABC News has once again treated the cooked crime data coming out of Washington, D.C. as though they were the Gospel truth. And in a new yet familiar twist, now accuse President Donald Trump of "baselessly" referring to the data as "phony".

Watch ABC News National Correspondent Mola Lenghi do his thing in a report prepared for today's edition of This Week:

ABC's @MolaReports Lenghi, on @ThisWeekABC, continued the DC press corps obsession with arguing crime not a problem in DC: "The President declaring an emergency, saying crime in D.C. is spiraling out of control even though the District's official figures showing violent crime... pic.twitter.com/vw5YzTLyH4

-- Brent Baker 🇺🇲🇺🇦 🇮🇱 (@BrentHBaker) August 17, 2025

MOLA LENGHI: This morning, National Guard troops on the streets of the nation's capital, and D.C. police working with a new directive from the president.

DONALD TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Now they are allowed to do whatever the hell they want.

LENGHI: On Monday, President Trump announcing a federal takeover of the D.C. Police Department, claiming officers have had their hands tied, unable to fight back against crime and lawlessness.

TRUMP: They fight back until you knock the hell out of them because it's the only language they understand.

LENGHI: The president declaring an emergency, saying crime in D.C. is spiraling out of control, even though the district's official figures showing violent crime recently hitting a 30-year low, down 26 percent since last year, numbers the president has baselessly called phony.

MERYL CHERTOFF: In general, emergencies are declared with respect to national disasters, terrorist events, wartime activity. We have none of those situations here.

The full segment led to an interview with noted enjoyer of margaritas with violent illegal alien gangbangers Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), who would further complain about the Trump takeover of the Metropolitan Police Department.

The record reflects that a Metro police commander was suspended due to manipulation of crime statistics. Per NBC4:

A D.C. police commander is under investigation for allegedly making changes to crime statistics in his district.

The Metropolitan Police Department confirmed Michael Pulliam was placed on paid administrative leave in mid-May. That happened just a week after Pulliam filed an equal employment opportunity complaint against an assistant chief and the police union accused the department of deliberately falsifying crime data, according to three law enforcement sources familiar with the complaint.

The union claims police supervisors in the department manipulate crime data to make it appear violent crime has fallen considerably compared to last year.

The legacy media are particularly fond of citing the cooked crime data as factual. A recent study by our very own Bill Agostino found that CNN and MSNBC cited the cooked data 73 times over a 24-hour period, and the network newscasts have largely followed the same pattern.

This is but another example of a Trump-deranged media that cannot help itself when reporting on stories that may be favorable to the president. The insistence on dismissing Trump's correct reference to the crime data as "baseless" in the face of clear and convincing evidence to the contrary is, by definition, fake news, and yet another exhibit in the ongoing argument against trust in the media.

Click "expand" to view the full transcript of the aforementioned report as aired on ABC's This Week with George Stephanopoulos on Sunday, August 17th, 2025:

MARTHA RADDATZ: President Trump is locked in a legal battle with city officials in Washington, D.C., after announcing a federal takeover of the D.C. police and sending National Guard troops into the nation's capital that he claims is spiraling out of control. ABC's Mola Lenghi has the latest.

MOLA LENGHI: This morning, National Guard troops on the streets of the nation's capital, and D.C. police working with a new directive from the president.

DONALD TRUMP, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES: Now they are allowed to do whatever the hell they want.

LENGHI: On Monday, President Trump announcing a federal takeover of the D.C. Police Department, claiming officers have had their hands tied, unable to fight back against crime and lawlessness.

TRUMP: They fight back until you knock the hell out of them because it's the only language they understand.

LENGHI: The president declaring an emergency, saying crime in D.C. is spiraling out of control, even though the district's official figures showing violent crime recently hitting a 30-year low, down 26 percent since last year, numbers the president has baselessly called phony.

MERYL CHERTOFF: In general, emergencies are declared with respect to national disasters, terrorist events, wartime activity. We have none of those situations here.

LENGHI: And despite that, President Trump deploying 800 National Guard troops to some of the city's most prominent locations, including the National Mall and Union Station for what Army officials characterize as a role of support.

PETE HEGSETH: If you take an action or a shot at them, there will be a consequence. We're not going to have National Guard sitting there like this, seeing a crime committed, not do something about it.

LENGHI: Initially unarmed, "The Wall Street Journal" now reporting those citizen soldiers are preparing to carry weapons in D.C. in the coming days.

Asked about the report, a White House official telling ABC News, "they may be armed, consistent with their mission and training."

The White House saying since the operation began, dozens of arrests have been made. The majority, undocumented immigrants.

Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser calling it an authoritarian push before dialing that back.

MURIEL BOWSER: What we want to do is make sure that this federal surge is useful to us.

LENGHI: Many residents we spoke to saying while crime has at times been a concern, a military presence feels unnecessary.

UNIDENTIFIED MALE: I understand wanting to get some help, to help with the crime, but I think the National Guard just adds an extra layer to people's anxiety and angst.

LENGHI: And despite the president's claims, legal experts say it's clear that law enforcement does not have the right to assault anyone.

MONICA HOPKINS: You know, we still have a Constitution, and you know, police don't have a right to do just anything under the Constitution. You have certain rights when encountering police.

LENGHI: President Trump's efforts now spilling into a legal battle with city officials.

BRIAN SCHWALB: The hostile takeover of our police force is not going to happen.

LENGHI: As Attorney General Pam Bondi issued an order that would sideline D.C.'s police chief, replacing her with the head of the Drug Enforcement Agency.

PAM BONDI: That's why at my directive, we have made Terry Cole now the commissioner over the police.

LENGHI: But just hours later, a district judge raising concerns about the plan, telling White House attorneys that the Department of Justice clearly cannot direct the MPD to do anything. Attorneys for the city and the DOJ then reaching an agreement to restore control of the police department to Police Chief Pamela Smith.

SCHWALB: I'm very gratified that the judge today recognized that that is flagrantly illegal.

LENGHI: Well, on Saturday, governors from several states, including South Carolina, West Virginia, and Ohio, agreeing to send National Guard troops from their states, bringing the total number of soldiers deployed here to the nation's capital to more than 1,500. Now, the president has indicated that he wants to keep those troops as well as his authority over D.C. police for more than the 30 days currently allotted to him, setting up the potential for a drawn-out legal battle, Martha.

Expand

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Opinion:

The recent article from ABC News highlights the ongoing political discourse surrounding crime rates in Washington, D.C., particularly in the context of former President Donald Trump's comments on the state of law enforcement and public safety. This situation is emblematic of a broader trend where political narratives often clash with statistical realities, a dynamic that has significant implications for public policy and community safety. The framing of crime data, the manipulation of narrative, and the response of various political factions reveal deep-seated issues that resonate with historical injustices and ongoing social struggles.

Historically, the portrayal of crime has often been used as a rhetorical weapon in political battles, particularly by those seeking to amplify fears around public safety. The rhetoric surrounding crime in urban areas, predominantly impacting marginalized communities, has roots in systemic racism and classism. Trump's assertion that crime is "spiraling out of control" stands in stark contrast to official data indicating a 30-year low in violent crime in D.C. This discrepancy raises important questions about the motivations behind such statements. Are they intended to galvanize support for a more militarized police presence, or do they serve a political purpose by casting urban centers—often led by progressive policies—as dangerous and chaotic? Such narratives can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and distract from the underlying issues of inequality and systemic injustice that drive crime.

The article also touches on the allegations of manipulated crime statistics within the D.C. police department, which introduces an important layer of complexity. If police leadership is indeed involved in altering data to present a more favorable view of public safety, it underscores a crisis of trust in institutions that are meant to serve and protect communities. The alleged manipulation not only undermines transparency but also impedes genuine discussions about crime prevention strategies. When data is weaponized for political gain, it can divert resources away from programs that address root causes of crime, such as poverty, lack of access to education, and inadequate mental health services. This is a critical reminder that crime is not simply a law enforcement issue but a multifaceted social challenge that requires comprehensive solutions.

Furthermore, Trump's declaration of a federal takeover of the D.C. Police Department under the guise of an "emergency" raises significant concerns about federal overreach and the politicization of local law enforcement. This move echoes historical patterns where federal authority has been invoked to impose control over communities, often with detrimental effects. The imposition of federal oversight can disrupt local governance and diminish accountability to the communities affected by crime. History has shown that such actions can exacerbate tensions between law enforcement and the communities they serve, particularly in areas already grappling with mistrust and systemic discrimination. The implications of this narrative extend beyond D.C., serving as a bellwether for how urban crime is addressed nationally.

Moreover, the political motivations behind the portrayal of crime statistics warrant scrutiny. The article hints at a broader conservative media strategy to undermine trust in mainstream outlets by labeling reports based on factual data as "fake news." This tactic of discrediting media sources plays into a larger narrative of eroding public trust in institutions, which can have long-lasting consequences for democratic discourse. If individuals are encouraged to reject credible information in favor of politically convenient narratives, society risks devolving into a state of ignorance where decisions are driven by fear rather than fact. It is crucial for communities to engage critically with the information presented to them, demanding accountability and transparency from both their leaders and the media.

In conclusion, the discussion around crime in Washington, D.C., as presented in the article, serves as a microcosm of broader societal issues regarding justice, accountability, and the role of government. It underscores the need for nuanced conversations about crime that do not rely on sensationalism or fearmongering but instead focus on equitable solutions that address the systemic factors contributing to crime. As citizens and advocates engage in these discussions, it is imperative to challenge narratives that seek to exploit fear for political gain, pushing instead for a more just and equitable society that prioritizes the well-being of all its members.

Action:

The article from ABC News provides a lens through which we can scrutinize the intersection of crime data, political rhetoric, and media accountability, particularly as it pertains to the actions and statements of public figures like former President Donald Trump. The narrative surrounding crime in Washington, D.C., has been manipulated to serve various political agendas, and this phenomenon is not new. In the United States, crime statistics have often been weaponized to stoke fear, justify political action, or impose systemic changes that disproportionately affect marginalized communities. As we reflect on this current incident, it is crucial to recognize the historical context of crime narratives in American politics and how they have often been used as a means to bolster law-and-order campaigns.

Historically, crime has been a powerful tool in the hands of politicians, particularly during election cycles. From the "Southern Strategy" of the 1960s to contemporary discussions about urban crime, data has frequently been selectively presented or manipulated to evoke fear and justify harsher policing measures. The claim that crime is "spiraling out of control" while official statistics indicate otherwise is a classic tactic employed to create a sense of urgency that can lead to drastic governmental actions—such as Trump's federal takeover of the D.C. Police Department. This is particularly concerning given that such measures often result in increased militarization of police forces and the erosion of civil liberties, especially in communities of color which have been disproportionately affected by aggressive policing tactics.

In light of these developments, it is essential for Americans to engage critically with the sources of their information. The assertion that crime data is "cooked" or manipulated is a serious allegation that warrants deeper investigation. The issues surrounding the credibility of crime statistics and the integrity of law enforcement agencies must be addressed. Citizens, journalists, and policymakers alike can advocate for transparency and accountability within police departments. This includes endorsing independent oversight bodies that can provide unbiased evaluations of crime data and policing practices to ensure that communities are not subjected to unjustified levels of surveillance or militarization based on misleading statistics.

As we consider the implications of this narrative, it becomes evident that there is a need for collective action. Advocacy for policy reforms that prioritize community safety without resorting to aggressive policing is essential. This could include investing in social services, mental health resources, and community-based programs that address the root causes of crime rather than merely its symptoms. In conversations with those who may hold a different viewpoint, it can be beneficial to emphasize the importance of community-driven safety strategies that respect individual rights and freedoms while fostering trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.

Moreover, educational initiatives that focus on media literacy can empower citizens to question and analyze the information they consume. By equipping individuals with the tools to discern credible data from politically motivated rhetoric, we can foster a more informed public discourse. This is where grassroots organizations can play a pivotal role, conducting workshops and discussions that highlight the importance of understanding crime statistics, their implications, and the historical context behind their usage. By doing so, we not only hold political figures accountable for their claims but also cultivate a culture of critical engagement with the media that challenges the status quo.

In conclusion, the situation surrounding the crime data in Washington, D.C., encapsulates a broader discourse on political manipulation, accountability, and community safety. By understanding the historical backdrop, advocating for policy reforms, and emphasizing the need for media literacy, Americans can take meaningful steps toward a more equitable society. The challenge lies not just in addressing the immediate concerns raised in the article but in fostering an ongoing dialogue that prioritizes justice, transparency, and the well-being of all communities. In doing so, we can dismantle the narratives that serve to divide us and work toward a more just and safe society for everyone.

To Do:

Based on the analysis of the provided news article, there are several concrete actions that individuals can take to address the issues surrounding crime data manipulation, police accountability, and the broader discussion about public safety. Here are some ideas and actions you can personally undertake:

### 1. **Educate Yourself and Others** - **Action:** Read up on crime statistics and police accountability issues. Share this knowledge with your community through discussions, social media, or local forums. - **Example:** Host a community discussion or panel featuring local experts, activists, or law enforcement officials to discuss the realities of crime and community safety.

### 2. **Engage with Local Representatives** - **Action:** Write letters or emails to your local representatives to express your concerns about crime data manipulation and police accountability. - **Who to Write To:** - **Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD)** - Email: vanhollen.senate.gov/contact - Mailing Address: 110 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 - **Your Local City Council Member** - Find your local council member’s contact information on your city’s official website.

- **What to Say:** Express your concerns about the integrity of crime statistics, the importance of transparency in law enforcement, and the need for accountability within the police department.

### 3. **Support Petitions for Police Reform** - **Action:** Sign and share petitions that call for police accountability and transparency regarding crime data. - **Example:** - **Petition for Police Accountability**: Visit sites like Change.org or MoveOn.org to find relevant petitions. - Create your own petition if you feel strongly about a specific local issue regarding police practices.

### 4. **Contact Local News Outlets** - **Action:** Reach out to local media to encourage more investigative reporting on police data manipulation and public safety issues. - **Who to Contact:** - Local newspapers, radio stations, or television networks. - **For example:** - **ABC News Contact:** - General Inquiry: abcnews.go.com/contact - **Local news stations (check their websites for contact details)**

- **What to Say:** Encourage them to investigate and report on the accuracy of crime statistics and the implications for community safety.

### 5. **Participate in Local Government Meetings** - **Action:** Attend city council meetings, community board meetings, or police department oversight meetings to voice your concerns and stay informed about local public safety policies. - **How to Find Meetings:** Check your local government’s website for public meeting schedules.

### 6. **Engage in Community Safety Programs** - **Action:** Get involved with local organizations focused on community safety and police reform. - **Examples:** - Join organizations such as the **American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)** or local chapters focused on police reform. - Volunteer for community outreach programs that promote public safety without relying on aggressive policing.

### 7. **Advocate for Transparency and Accountability** - **Action:** Push for legislation that requires law enforcement agencies to report accurate crime statistics and undergo regular audits. - **Example:** Support bills or initiatives that promote police accountability, like the **George Floyd Justice in Policing Act**.

### 8. **Utilize Social Media Platforms** - **Action:** Use social media to raise awareness about the manipulation of crime statistics and advocate for police accountability. - **How to Do It:** Share informative articles, create posts about local incidents, and engage with local leaders on platforms like Twitter or Facebook.

### Conclusion While the article highlights contentious issues surrounding crime data and policing, there are numerous avenues for individuals to engage with these concerns proactively. By advocating for transparency, participating in local governance, and educating others, you can help foster a community dialog on public safety that is rooted in truth and accountability.


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