Federal authorities will take a leading role in addressing violent crime in Memphis, Tennessee, following a new directive from President Donald J. Trump. The memorandum, issued on September 15, 2025, establishes the Memphis Safe Task Force to coordinate federal, state, and local efforts aimed at reducing crime rates in the city.
According to data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation cited in the memorandum, Memphis had the highest rate of violent crime per capita among U.S. cities in 2024. This included high rates of murder, robbery, aggravated assault, and property crimes such as burglary and motor vehicle theft. The document notes that these levels have overwhelmed local government resources.
President Trump stated: "The city, a beacon of American culture that was Elvis’s home and is often called the birthplace of rock and roll and the blues, should be safe and secure for all of its citizens and Americans who visit its historic landmarks such as Graceland, Beale Street, and the Memphis Pyramid. To restore public safety and order, State and local leaders have requested Federal assistance, and I will act quickly to ensure that Federal authorities assist Memphis law enforcement to the fullest possible extent."
The newly established task force will be chaired by an individual appointed by the Attorney General. It will include representatives from multiple federal agencies including the Departments of Treasury; War; Justice; Health and Human Services; Housing and Urban Development; Transportation; Homeland Security; United States Marshals Service; FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Homeland Security Investigations; as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Western District of Tennessee.
The chairman may also invite additional agencies or inspectors general from various departments to participate if deemed necessary.
Coordination with state entities such as the Memphis Police Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Shelby County officials—as well as neighboring states’ law enforcement—will be sought to maximize resources.
Strategies developed under previous executive orders focused on law enforcement coordination in Washington D.C., specifically Executive Order 14252 (March 27, 2025) and Executive Order 14333 (August 11, 2025), will serve as models for operations in Memphis.
The task force is instructed to report regularly through White House channels regarding progress toward restoring safety in Memphis. The Attorney General is tasked with assessing whether further executive action may be needed based on ongoing circumstances.
To support these efforts further: "The Secretary of War shall request that the Governor of Tennessee...make available National Guard units of Tennessee to support public safety and law enforcement operations in Memphis," according to section three of the memorandum. Additional National Guard mobilization may occur if required.
President Trump concluded: "This memorandum is not intended to...create any right or benefit...enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States..."
