Amid growing concern, several police departments around the D.C. area have opted not to join the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) for security during the 2025 Presidential Inauguration.
The decision stems from concerns over MPD's policies and disagreements among departments, potentially limiting officer numbers at the event, The Daily Caller reported.
More than six D.C.-area police departments have declined to provide officers to assist MPD with inauguration security, marking a departure from previous practices. Typically, numerous regional departments supplement MPD efforts to ensure safety during such events. The absence of these departments might create a significant shortfall in the number of law enforcement personnel available.
A variety of reasons were cited for not participating in the security operations. Some departments mentioned disagreements over a memorandum of understanding (MOU), while others did not specify their rationale. The Montgomery County Police Department explicitly pointed to an MOU dispute as a factor in their decision.
Howard County, which had previously aided in security efforts in 2017, reported not receiving a request for the upcoming inauguration. Queen Anne’s County attributed its non-participation to "technical difficulties," signaling logistical or communication issues as a barrier.
Staffing issues have been cited by the Frederick County Sheriff’s Department as their reason for opting out. Despite these withdrawals, a few departments, such as Frederick City and Loudoun County, have pledged to send a limited number of officers and deputies to assist MPD.
With the ceremony moving to the Capitol Rotunda due to inclement weather concerns, the Capitol Police will assume a more prominent responsibility in security management. Anne Arundel County, Maryland State Police, and Prince George's County have committed to assisting the Capitol Police but not the MPD.
Concerns over MPD's past handling of demonstrations may also contribute to the reluctance of some departments. Lieutenant Jason Bagshaw of the MPD, who has been associated with controversial use-of-force incidents, remains a point of contention.
His involvement in the January 6 incident and subsequent legal troubles related to a Pro-Palestine protest have drawn scrutiny and criticism. How these controversies might affect inter-agency collaborations remains a point of interest.
Despite these challenges, MPD has asserted their preparedness. An MPD representative emphasized collaboration with various government levels in preparation for the 60th Presidential Inauguration. They stressed the importance of supporting First Amendment rights while maintaining security.
MPD stated, “The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) is working closely with our local, state, and federal partners as we prepare for the 60th Presidential Inauguration.” They added, “We recognize the importance of upholding the First Amendment rights of individuals to peacefully express their views, and we are committed to facilitating lawful demonstrations while maintaining public order.”
The security plan, already extensive, involves the participation of approximately 25,000 personnel, which includes military and law enforcement. In acknowledging the complex circumstances, U.S. Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool highlighted the rigorous planning undertaken for the event.
McCool stated that this inauguration's security operations are backed by a "slightly more robust security plan," developed over 12 months to address heightened threats. Despite a manpower shortage amid increased threat levels, the MPD reassures the public of strong security measures.
Several D.C.-area police departments have declined to assist the MPD for the 2025 Presidential Inauguration, citing disagreements or concerns. These withdrawals, amid controversies over MPD’s handling of demonstrations, present challenges for event security. However, with significant federal and military support, the inauguration will proceed with intensive preparations.
