The refusal of several police departments surrounding Washington, D.C., to assist with security for the upcoming inauguration signals a growing tension between local law enforcement and the Metropolitan Police Department.
The Daily Caller reported that with the 2025 Presidential Inauguration fast approaching, multiple local police departments have opted out of aiding the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) with security plans, citing disagreements over terms and operational limitations.
More than half a dozen departments in the vicinity of Washington, D.C., have decided not to provide support to the MPD.
This decision means the MPD could potentially lose hundreds of officers necessary to secure the high-profile event. Concerns about the current memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the departments are reportedly a primary factor in this decision.
Local police from Montgomery County, Howard County, Queen Anne’s County, and Frederick County have each chosen not to participate in bolstering the MPD. A spokesperson for the Montgomery County Police Department explained, “Based on the current MOU, we will not be assisting Metro PD.”
Additionally, some departments, such as Anne Arundel County, Maryland State Police, and Prince George’s County, have elected to support the Capitol Police.
This choice reflects a preference for engagement in security arrangements managed by different law enforcement agencies, avoiding direct involvement with MPD during this event.
Despite these decisions, a few departments will work with the MPD. Frederick City and Loudoun County will provide a limited number of officers and deputies, respectively. Nonetheless, this cooperation pales in comparison to the reinforcements that have opted out.
The security plan for the inauguration is largely focused on the Capitol Rotunda. Due to concerns stemming from weather and potential threats, measures have been concentrated in this historic location. Former President Trump stated that security arrangements consider these particular issues.
MPD's recent history of managing protests and demonstrations has played a significant role in the reluctance of neighboring police departments to participate.
The MPD's past use-of-force incidents have sparked controversy, leading to inquiries about the department’s policies. Notably, Lieutenant Jason Bagshaw, associated with incidents of alleged excessive force, has been a focal point in these discussions.
Critics have raised issues with the MPD's handling of previous protests, particularly highlighting the use-of-force policy outlined in the MOU.
This policy categorizes threats into various levels, from passive resisters to active assailants, with deadly force permitted only when there is an immediate threat.
A recent focus has been on an incident involving Bagshaw, where officers reportedly "inflicted unreasonable and excessive force" on demonstrators. Such incidents have fueled the hesitance of local departments to align with MPD under the current terms.
In response to the ongoing criticism, the MPD claims it is "working closely with our local, state, and federal partners" in preparation for the inauguration. The department has expressed a commitment to uphold individuals' First Amendment rights, facilitate lawful protest, and maintain public order.
With an anticipated requirement for significant law enforcement presence, the inauguration is considered a "higher-threat environment" according to Matt McCool, a special agent with the U.S. Secret Service. Approximately 25,000 military and police personnel are expected to contribute to the event's security measures.
