DC Police Crime Data Under Scrutiny: Federal Investigation Launched

The U.S. Department of Justice has launched an investigation to determine if officials within the Washington, DC, police department manipulated crime data. A source familiar with the matter disclosed this, though they were not authorized to speak publicly about the ongoing inquiry.

This investigation surfaces amidst a growing political battle between the Trump administration and the city's leadership concerning authority over the police department. These developments further complicate an already tense relationship between federal and local authorities.

As of now, it remains uncertain what specific federal statutes might have been breached due to the alleged data manipulation. The city's mayor's office has refrained from commenting on the investigation. Notably, The New York Times first reported this development, and earlier reports indicate a police commander was previously placed on leave over similar allegations.

(With inputs from agencies.)