(The Hill) The Interior Department is enlisting federal border agents to assist at National Park Service locations as part of an increased federal law enforcement presence in Washington, D.C., according to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum on Wednesday.
In a post on X, Burgum stated that the department has initiated a “service-wide deputization” of officers from Customs and Border Protection to “enhance crime prevention efforts” within Park Service areas.
While he didn’t specify if this measure is exclusive to Washington, D.C., he expressed gratitude, thanking “these brave officers” for their round-the-clock dedication to enforcing the president’s aim to restore safety in the capital.
The Interior Department and CBP did not immediately respond to additional questions from partner The Hill.
This development comes amid a surge of federal law enforcement officers, including immigration officials, taking action in D.C. Although typically focused on border matters, CBP agents are among those intensifying operations in the city.
Washington hosts numerous National Park Service sites that usually come under the U.S. Park Police’s domain. The locations range from tourist magnets like the National Mall and Ford’s Theatre to local favorites such as DuPont Circle, Logan Circle, Rock Creek, and Meridian Hill parks.
It’s not clear where exactly the CBP agents will be located or how many of them there will be.
Rebecca Beitsch contributed to this report.
