The President of the United States has issued a directive aimed at bolstering the capabilities of law enforcement agencies across the nation. By leveraging the executive powers conferred by the Constitution and federal laws, the order seeks to empower state and local law enforcement to address criminal activities effectively and enhance public safety.
The directive outlines several key priorities. It emphasizes the necessity of supporting law enforcement officers in the pursuit of their duties, signifying that hindrances such as political or legal constraints can lead to increased criminal activity and adversely affect citizens and small businesses. The administration plans to reinforce law enforcement by establishing best practices, protecting officers from wrongful accusations, and enhancing support resources where needed.
Specific initiatives include the creation of mechanisms to provide legal resources for officers who face undue liabilities while performing their duties. The Attorney General will devise ways to offer indemnification, including the engagement of private sector pro bono assistance.
Further measures involve maximizing federal resources to assist state and local law enforcement. This includes providing new community policing strategies, improving training quality, increasing officer pay and benefits, fortifying legal protections, seeking harsher penalties for crimes against officers, and investing in prisons and crime data management.
The order mandates a review of existing federal consent decrees affecting state or local law enforcement agencies, with modifications or terminations planned where these agreements hinder law enforcement functions.
There is a directive to utilize military and national security resources in support of crime prevention efforts, with the Secretary of Defense coordinating with the Attorney General to evaluate how these assets can be deployed efficiently.
Accountability is also addressed, targeting state and local officials who obstruct law enforcement activities. Legal actions will be pursued against jurisdictions engaged in discriminatory practices under the guise of diversity initiatives that impede law enforcement.
Lastly, the coordination of Homeland Security Task Forces will be employed to advance the objectives of this order, contributing to the overarching goal of enhancing public safety and law enforcement efficacy.
The order clarifies that it respects existing authority levels and will be executed within legal appropriations. It does not intend to create enforceable legal rights for individuals against the government.
"Strengthening and Unleashing America’s Law Enforcement to Pursue Criminals and Protect Innocent Citizens" remains the central goal of the initiative.
DONALD J. TRUMP
THE WHITE HOUSE, April 28, 2025.
