Police Reports Shuffled to Make City Look Safer
Metropolitan Police Department Under Fire for Alleged Crime Report Alterations
The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) in Washington, D.C. is facing intense scrutiny after a comprehensive investigation uncovered potential manipulation of crime reports by senior officers. The 500‑plus page report suggests that top officials may have altered crime classifications to present a more favorable safety image for the city.
Scope of Investigation
The inquiry, which has identified 13 senior officers who could face termination, examined text messages, emails, and internal directives that directed officers to reclassify crimes—particularly theft cases.- Key Findings
- A directive labeled “TPWR” (taking property without right) prompted questions about whether a theft had been reclassified.
- An official asked an officer, “Did you reclassify that theft?” in a separate exchange.
- A commander repeatedly referred to property crime as “the way to get crime down” and dismissed concerns with a dismissive “mind his business.”
- Serious offenses such as carjackings, shootings, and stabbings were reportedly downgraded in some instances.
Reactions
Former MPD officer Ronald Hampton reviewed portions of the report and described the allegations as “unsettling,” yet acknowledged broader pressures on law enforcement. He stated,“Pressure comes with keeping public safety,” Hampton said. “But that doesn’t excuse what the texts show.”
A resident noted,
“One who is in a high position feels pressure to hit quotas. They think the ends justify the means, but that’s not how civil service should work.”Legal Context
Crime reclassification is permissible when charges do not meet legal standards, but the investigation alleges that severe crimes were inappropriately downgraded.Ongoing Oversight
The Inspector General’s Office is conducting a separate review. The news outlet will continue reporting as new details emerge.
