MPD Downgraded Serious Crimes

In-Depth Analysis

An internal affairs report obtained by 7News I-Team details how the MPD reclassified serious crimes. Assaults involving weapons, including guns and knives, were sometimes recorded as simple assaults. Shootings and stabbings were labeled as “injured person” cases, meaning they were not counted as violent crimes. Investigators found multiple instances where more serious crimes were downgraded to lesser offenses, including: Robbery → reclassified as theft or simple assault; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon (ADW) → reduced to simple assault, threats, or reckless endangerment; Shootings and stabbings → labeled as “injured person” or other non-violent categories; Carjackings → recorded as auto theft or listed as pending cases; Burglary → changed to unlawful entry or lower-level incidents; Theft and theft from auto → labeled as “lost property” or other lesser offense. The report also includes testimony from officers describing a culture that encouraged lower classifications. Investigators said pressure to show falling crime numbers may have contributed to the problem, creating an environment where lower classifications became the norm. The U.S. Attorney's Office already did its own investigation and found nothing criminal. Thirteen police officers have been placed on administrative leave based on the results of the investigation by MPD. So far, no officer has been fired.

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FAQ

What was the main finding of the MPD internal affairs investigation?

The investigation revealed a pattern of serious crimes being downgraded behind the scenes.

What types of crimes were commonly downgraded?

Assaults with weapons, shootings, stabbings, robbery, carjackings, and burglary were among the crimes downgraded.

Takeaways

The downgrading of serious crimes by the MPD can impact the accuracy of crime statistics and potentially reduce police response.
A culture within the MPD may have encouraged lower classifications to show falling crime numbers.
Thirteen officers have been placed on administrative leave, but no one has been fired as a result of the investigation.

Discussion

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Sources

13 DC police officers placed on leave following probe into allegedly manipulated crime stats Inside the probe that has 13 top D.C. police officials fighting for their jobs 7News I-Team obtains internal report showing MPD downgraded serious crimes

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