Five suspects have been apprehended by Washington, D.C. law enforcement in relation to a string of burglaries and property damage occurrences that took place in various neighborhoods during the early hours of Tuesday.
BREAKING REPORT: Small Riot forming in the center of WASHINGTON D.C..
DEVELOPING..
Multiple assaults, high end looting and several fires..
— Chuck Callesto (@ChuckCallesto) September 10, 2024
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) stated that the suspects were captured following the targeting and vandalism of several businesses in City Center, Georgetown, H Street Corridor, Logan Circle, and near Columbia Heights.
The MPD’s statement indicated that the offenses occurred overnight and impacted both businesses and private properties across different areas of the district.
The police noted the widespread nature of the incidents, saying, “Overnight, groups of individuals decided to destroy property and burglarize businesses throughout our city, specifically in the City Center and Georgetown areas, along with a store in the H Street Corridor, a store in Logan Circle, and a store north of Columbia Heights.”
MPD Statement on Overnight Incidents pic.twitter.com/xjzVLRxhiR
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) September 10, 2024
Due to the events, law enforcement authorities boosted the presence of police in the impacted regions.
Promptly, officers reacted to reports of break-ins and vandalism, resulting in the apprehension of five individuals who are now confronting various charges such as burglary and evading law enforcement.
PROTEST AT CITY CENTER: 1000 Bl. of I St. N.W. Mpd and DCFD is on scene for a large protest. There is unconfirmed reports of some small fires set. 4 BLS units are on scene. 2 people are being evaluated for unknown injuries. One person is in custody. pic.twitter.com/3IqCgm3HoR
— killmoenetworkent (@killmoenetwork) September 10, 2024
Police are currently conducting an ongoing investigation into six reported burglaries and six separate incidents of property destruction. Although the details of the suspects have not been disclosed, officials from the MPD have confirmed that detectives are actively working to fully comprehend the extent of these crimes.
“MPD detectives continue to investigate these offenses, and we will hold offenders accountable,” the police department said in a statement, emphasizing their commitment to bringing those responsible to justice.
Following the recent surge in criminal activity overnight, the MPD has stated that it will be stepping up police presence in different neighborhoods throughout the city to prevent further incidents and safeguard public safety.
These increased patrols are a part of the department’s wider initiatives to combat property-related offenses and discourage future criminal behavior.
The police department has restated its strict stance on acts of violence and property damage, affirming to residents and business owners that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Here’s video taken by @_anthonypeltier showing the aftermath of numerous smash-ins at businesses around City Center DC. Protestors can be heard yelling “Don’t Shoot, I’m Sleep” in the background. #DCCrime https://t.co/gYPND5zVvc pic.twitter.com/lav1ntd0TP
— DMV News Live (@DCNewsLive) September 10, 2024
This recent series of burglaries is indicative of a worrying pattern of property crimes impacting businesses and communities in D.C.
As authorities work to unravel these incidents, the MPD is advising the public to stay alert and report any suspicious behavior.
As the investigation unfolds, more details about the suspects and the charges they will face are anticipated to be made public.
The MPD is appealing to anyone with information related to these crimes to reach out to the department as they strive to hold all perpetrators accountable.
In the interim, neighborhoods affected by these crimes, such as City Center, Georgetown, and Logan Circle, can expect a heightened police presence as part of the department’s efforts to reassure the community and deter further criminal activity.
