Jeanine Pirro Speaks on Crime Crisis in Washington

Jeanine Pirro Denounces Rise in Juvenile Homicides in Washington, D.C., and Calls for Urgent Legal Reforms

Washington, D.C. Federal Prosecutor Jeanine Pirro has expressed strong disapproval of official statistics showing a decline in violent crime in the U.S. capital, calling them "insensitive" to the reality faced by victims. During a press conference on August 12, 2025, Pirro presented data highlighting an alarming number of homicides among individuals under 20 years old, all members of minority communities. According to Pirro, in 2024, 29 young people, some as young as three years old, were shot and killed in D.C., and as of 2025, 16 more victims have already been recorded in this age group.

Pirro emphasized that these cases reflect an entire community suffering from juvenile violence and questioned the effectiveness of current policies, which she says allow underage offenders to evade justice. "I don’t need more statistics. All I need is for people to recognize that these were vibrant human beings, killed by illegal guns," Pirro stated.

Pirro also criticized three laws enacted by the D.C. Council: the Youth Rehabilitation Act (YRA), the Incarceration Reduction Amendment Act (IRAA), and the Second Chance Act. These laws allow young offenders to receive reduced sentences or even probation, which, according to Pirro, contributes to the rise in juvenile crime by not providing adequate consequences. "I am here today to tell you that, on behalf of all these victims and their families, there will be accountability," Pirro declared, emphasizing the need for urgent legal reforms to ensure accountability and public safety.

Furthermore, Pirro highlighted the need for greater collaboration between federal and local authorities to effectively address juvenile violence in D.C. She urged the D.C. Council to review and amend current laws to allow more effective prosecution of crimes committed by minors. "If you are 14, 15, 16, or 17 years old, we are going to bring you into the justice system," Pirro said, underscoring her commitment to justice and community safety.

Pirro’s stance aligns with the administration of President Donald Trump, who has expressed concern over the increase in juvenile crime in D.C. The president has suggested federal measures to address the situation, including the possibility of federalizing the local police and amending juvenile justice laws.