Trump credits federal agents for 30% drop in Minneapolis crime after thousands of criminals removed
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump praised federal law enforcement efforts in Minneapolis, claiming the city saw a rapid drop in crime after "thousands of criminals" were removed.
In an interview with NBC News’ Tom Llamas that aired Sunday, February 8, Trump said crime in Minneapolis has fallen by as much as 30% since the launch of federal operations.
Trump links crime drop to removal of 'hardened criminals'
The administration’s ‘Operation Metro Surge’ deployed thousands of immigration and federal law enforcement agents across Minneapolis and St. Paul, resulting in a wave of arrests. Trump attributed the crime reduction to these targeted actions.
"The crime numbers in Minnesota, in Minneapolis in particular, are down 25, 30% because we've removed thousands of criminals from the area," Trump said. He added, "These are hardened criminals… Most of them came in through an open border, and we've done a great job."
Despite facing criticism and local opposition, Trump insisted the operation is producing tangible results, linking federal involvement to safer streets and lower crime statistics.
Trump highlights improvements in major US cities
Trump also mentioned other cities benefiting from his law enforcement initiatives. Referring to Washington, DC, he said, "Look at Washington, DC. It's like a safe city. You can walk to the White House. You don't have to take an armored vehicle."
He emphasized that the national trend is toward lower crime, crediting strong policing policies. "Crime, historically in this country, it's down to the lowest level it's ever been… We've had less murders than we have had in decades. And you know why? Because we're tough on crime," he said.
Southern cities see dramatic drops in crime
The president gave examples from Southern cities where federal intervention coincided with steep declines. He cited New Orleans, where he claimed crime dropped 71% within four weeks of federal involvement. He also noted Memphis, Tennessee, with an 80% reduction after five weeks.
Following two recent shooting deaths in Minneapolis, Trump said some agents were pulled back, signaling a "softer touch" could be applied. On Wednesday, White House border czar Tom Homan announced that 700 federal agents would begin a "complete drawdown" as operations conclude in the Twin Cities.
Trump maintained that these strategic federal deployments demonstrate measurable success in lowering crime, restoring public safety, and assisting local authorities in troubled areas.
