‘No More Mercy’: Judge Jeanine Pirro Vows Aggressive Crime Crackdown After Being Sworn In as D.C.’s Interim Prosecutor

In a move that is already sending shockwaves through the legal and political landscape of the nation’s capital, Judge Jeanine Pirro was officially sworn in as the interim top prosecutor of Washington, D.C., during a high-profile ceremony attended by former President Donald J. Trump and former Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Pirro, a former judge, prosecutor, and longtime Fox News host, used the occasion to deliver a fiery address, pledging a relentless crackdown on violent crime that she claims has “paralyzed” the city.

“There will be no more mercy,” Pirro declared, standing at a podium flanked by Bondi and Trump. “To the gangs, the shooters, and the career criminals who’ve made this city a war zone—your time is up.”

The statement was met with roaring applause from an audience of law enforcement officers, conservative officials, and supporters gathered on the steps of the historic E. Barrett Prettyman Courthouse.

A Controversial Appointment

Pirro’s appointment as interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia comes amid intense political debate over rising crime and concerns about the direction of the Department of Justice. Though interim federal prosecutor positions are typically filled quietly from within the DOJ, Trump—now a major political influencer ahead of the 2026 midterms—reportedly lobbied for Pirro to take on the role temporarily while the position undergoes Senate confirmation.

The White House and Department of Justice have yet to issue formal comments, but sources close to the matter describe Pirro’s appointment as “extraordinary” and “likely to be challenged.” Legal experts say the nature of the interim appointment could face scrutiny depending on how it was authorized.

Nevertheless, Pirro made clear that she intends to act swiftly and decisively.

“Washington has become a sanctuary for predators,” she said. “I’m not here to play politics. I’m here to clean house.”

Targeting ‘The Worst of the Worst’

Pirro announced that her first act will be launching Operation Iron Justice, a sweeping initiative aimed at what she described as “the worst of the worst”—repeat violent offenders with long rap sheets and little regard for the law.

She outlined a strategy that includes:

Federal prosecution for gang-related gun crimes, bypassing local courts.

Fast-tracking indictments through grand juries for high-profile homicides.

Reevaluating bail and pretrial release recommendations, with an emphasis on detention for violent suspects.

Expanding federal partnerships with U.S. Marshals, ATF, and FBI to track fugitives and conduct large-scale warrant sweeps.

“We’re going to start at the top of the food chain and work our way down,” Pirro said. “If you’re a gang leader, drug lord, or shooter, we’re coming for you.”

Critics immediately pushed back, warning that such rhetoric risks inflaming tensions and undermining due process.

But supporters argue that drastic measures are long overdue.

“This city has been crying out for real justice,” said Pam Bondi, who administered Pirro’s oath. “Jeanine is tough, she’s fearless, and she knows how to prosecute.”

Trump’s Presence Raises Eyebrows

Adding to the spectacle was the attendance of former President Donald Trump, who introduced Pirro before the swearing-in.

“This is the kind of leadership we need,” Trump said. “Jeanine is a warrior. And Washington—frankly—needs a warrior.”

The event, though not officially sanctioned by the Justice Department, felt more like a campaign rally than a government ceremony. Chants of “USA!” and “Lock them up!” rang through the crowd.

Political observers are already speculating whether the move is part of a broader conservative strategy to reshape federal law enforcement priorities at the local level—particularly in liberal strongholds like D.C.

What Comes Next

Pirro will serve in the interim role for a maximum of 120 days unless confirmed permanently—a process likely to spark fierce opposition in the Senate. But even in a temporary capacity, she holds substantial power to initiate federal cases, influence charging decisions, and shape prosecutorial strategy.

The Office of the U.S. Attorney for D.C. is one of the most powerful prosecutorial positions in the country, with jurisdiction over both federal and local crimes in the capital. Its leader has influence over everything from political corruption cases to street crime.

Pirro closed her remarks with a warning:

“If you thought the old rules still applied, think again. There’s a new sheriff in town.”