His D.C. church was robbed, but this pastor says the National Guard isn't needed
A church in Washington, D.C., experienced robberies, but its pastor, Rev. Kip Banks, believes the National Guard's presence isn't necessary for reducing crime. Although crime in the area was already decreasing, the city's leaders reported that it declined further since the federal troops began patrolling. The pastor and his congregation are concerned about the impact of military presence on their community's daily life.
Key Facts:
- Rev. Kip Banks is the pastor of East Washington Heights Baptist Church in D.C.'s Ward 7.
- The church has been robbed several times, with incidents involving theft of laptops and vandalism.
- President Trump sent the National Guard to D.C. in response to a declared "crime emergency."
- D.C. officials report a significant reduction in crime since the National Guard's deployment.
- The pastor and his church members feel uneasy about the military presence in their neighborhood.
- They are worried about potential targeting and disruptions to their way of life, such as issues with food delivery services.
- D.C.'s mayor supports additional law enforcement, citing a decrease in carjackings and overall crime.
