D.C. Homicides Up as Residents Lack Power to Elect District Attorney

Homicides have risen in Washington, D.C. while falling in other major cities. D.C. residents can't elect their own district attorney, unlike other cities.

The president appoints D.C.'s chief prosecutor, who handles both federal and local crimes. This is seen as undemocratic by many.

Allowing D.C. to elect its own D.A. could make the justice system more responsive to community needs and accountable to voters.

D.C.'s prosecution rate has fallen sharply in recent years due to issues like lack of resources and lab accreditation problems.

Congress would have to revise D.C.'s Home Rule Act to allow election of a local D.A. This is unlikely now but could help D.C. tackle its crime problem.