UPDATE: Former DOGE staffer Edward Coristine was allegedly assaulted in an attempted carjacking in Washington, D.C., early Sunday morning, prompting a stern response from President Donald Trump. The incident, which involved a group of approximately 10 teenagers, has sparked urgent discussions about crime in the nation’s capital.
Authorities report that the 19-year-old Coristine, known online as “Big Balls,” was targeted while near his vehicle. The attack occurred around 2:00 AM, leading to the arrest of two 15-year-olds who have been charged with unarmed carjacking. According to the Metropolitan Police Department, Coristine and his significant other witnessed the group approach and make comments about stealing the vehicle. In an attempt to protect her, he pushed her into the car before confronting the suspects.
Police patrolling the area intervened, causing most of the assailants to flee, but were able to apprehend the two identified teenagers from Hyattsville, Maryland. While no injuries were reported requiring medical transport, a black iPhone 16 was stolen during the assault.
In response to the incident, President Trump took to Truth Social to express his outrage. He described Coristine as an “incredible young man” who was “beaten mercilessly by local thugs.” Trump emphasized that crime in D.C. is “totally out of control” and called for authorities to “prosecute these ‘minors’ as adults” starting at age 14. He threatened to exert federal control over the city if it fails to address rising crime rates, stating, “If this continues, I am going to exert my powers, and FEDERALIZE this City.”
Elon Musk, former leader of DOGE, also commented on the incident, suggesting Coristine intervened to protect a young woman from an assault, although his account did not fully align with police reports. CBS News has reached out to Musk for further clarification.
The U.S. Attorney for D.C., Jeanine Pirro, echoed Trump’s concerns, stating, “It’s time we start taking crime more seriously irrespective of the age of the criminal.” This statement highlights a growing sentiment among officials that the current approach to juvenile crime needs reevaluation.
Coristine, a notable figure within the DOGE initiative, had been involved in efforts to reform government spending and operations before resigning in late June. He had recently returned to federal service with the Social Security Administration as a special government employee.
The events surrounding this incident underscore a broader narrative about safety and crime in urban America, raising questions about juvenile justice and community safety.
As investigations continue, the D.C. community and national observers will be watching closely for further developments. What happens next could reshape not only local governance but also how crime is addressed across the nation.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
