Overview of the Appointment
On August 14, 2025, U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issued a directive appointing Terry Cole, the head of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), as the 'emergency police commissioner' for Washington D.C. This move effectively grants Cole all the powers and duties vested in the District of Columbia Chief of Police.
Background and Context
The appointment comes as part of the Trump administration's increased grip on policing in the nation's capital. President Donald Trump had earlier announced a decision to federalize Washington, D.C., citing rising crime and violence in the city.
Current Police Chief's Status
The current police chief, Pamela Smith, works under the mayor of Washington D.C. It is unclear how this appointment affects her current role and responsibilities.
Reaction from D.C. Officials
D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb (D) expressed concerns over the legitimacy of Bondi's directive. In a letter to Chief Pamela Smith, Schwalb stated that he believes the order is unlawful and that Smith is not obligated to follow it.
Mayor's Response
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser also responded to the appointment, stating that the law requires the city's mayor to have control over the police department during a presidential emergency declaration.
Implications and Details
The directive means that the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) must receive approval from Commissioner Cole before issuing any directives. This move has significant implications for local law enforcement and the balance of power between federal and local authorities.
DEA and Cole's Background
Terry Cole has spent 22 years at the DEA. His appointment as emergency police commissioner raises questions about the extent of federal control over local policing and the potential consequences for the city's law enforcement strategy.
Expert Insights
Conclusion
The appointment of Terry Cole as emergency police commissioner has sparked controversy and raised questions about federal control over local law enforcement in Washington D.C. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this move will impact the city's policing and the relationship between federal and local authorities.
Additional Context
The Trump administration's decision to take over the Washington police department is part of a broader effort to address rising crime in the city. According to recent data, crime rates in Washington D.C. have increased significantly over the past year.
Detailed Analysis
Federal Control and Local Policing
The appointment of a federal official as emergency police commissioner raises questions about the extent of federal control over local policing. This move has significant implications for the balance of power between federal and local authorities in Washington D.C.
Potential Consequences
The consequences of this appointment are far-reaching and have sparked concerns among local officials and residents. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this move will impact the city's law enforcement strategy and the relationship between federal and local authorities.
Timeline of Events
- August 14, 2025: U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi issues a directive appointing Terry Cole as emergency police commissioner for Washington D.C.
- August 14, 2025: D.C. Attorney General Brian Schwalb expresses concerns over the legitimacy of Bondi's directive.
- August 15, 2025: D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser responds to the appointment, stating that the law requires the city's mayor to have control over the police department during a presidential emergency declaration.
Related Developments
The Trump administration's decision to federalize Washington, D.C. is part of a broader effort to address rising crime in the city. According to recent data, crime rates in Washington D.C. have increased significantly over the past year.