At least three congressional staffers were robbed at gunpoint during a robbery spree in Washington, D.C. over the weekend.

A series of armed robberies targeted congressional staffers in Washington, D.C.'s Navy Yard neighborhood, highlighting a concerning trend of rising violent crime in the nation’s capital, as Breitbart reports.

The incidents took place in the Navy Yard neighborhood, close to the Capitol, early Monday morning. The staffers work for Representatives Dan Bishop (R-NC) and Mike Collins (R-GA). Both incidents occurred within a few blocks of each other, and police believe they were carried out by the same group of suspects.

Group of Suspects Use Same Tactics

In the first instance, four victims were walking on a sidewalk when a black sedan with tinted windows approached them. Three suspects exited the sedan, one armed with a handgun, and demanded a staffer’s watch.

One of the victims, Octavian Miller, verbally confronted the suspects, while his friend punched one of the assailants. The suspects took items and fled in the vehicle. Bishop expressed his relief over Miller’s safety. “I’m thankful that he is safe and proud of him for successfully fending off the attackers,” he said.

Second Incident Mirrors First Robbery

Shortly after the first incident, another group of four men, including a different congressional staffer and an intern, were targeted. The suspects once again emerged from a black car, brandishing guns and stealing items such as iPhones, a gold necklace, and a gold-colored watch.

Following both incidents, the suspects fled the scene in their vehicle. Fortunately, none of the victims were seriously harmed.

Bishop commented on the broader issue of crime in Washington, D.C. “It’s an utter indictment of our capital city that this type of violent crime is so commonplace,” he stated. “Leftist pro-crime policies in Washington embolden criminals and put everyone who lives, works, and visits here in danger.”

Crime Surge in the Nation’s Capital

The incidents come amid a significant surge in violent crime in Washington, D.C. in recent years. In 2023, violent crime rose by 39 percent compared to 2022, with 274 homicides reported, the highest figure since 1997.

As of June 12, 2024, there have been 1,520 violent crimes reported in the city. This includes 80 homicides, 84 instances of sexual abuse, 471 assaults with a deadly weapon, and 885 robberies.

Mike Collins also criticized the city’s leadership for its handling of crime. “Time and time again D.C.’s leadership proves they are incapable of governing and protecting its citizens,” he said. “Violent crime in this city is a problem that affects everyone.”

Victims Express Gratitude for Safety

Despite the aggressive nature of the incidents, victims have expressed gratitude for their safety. Octavian Miller shared his thoughts on the situation, expressing relief.

“I thank God that nothing else bad happened to us,” Miller said. “But you hear about these stories, and it is quite unfortunate that we live in a city where it feels like you have to fend for yourself.”

Miller continued, “So, I’m just thankful that God protected the two of us during this situation.”

Political Leaders Call for Action

Reps. Bishop and Collins have called for more stringent measures to combat the rising crime rates in Washington, D.C.

Collins remarked, “It’s unthinkable that drive-by robberies are a normal part of living just a few blocks from the Capitol.”

The rise in violent incidents has sparked concern among lawmakers, staffers, and residents alike. The need for effective solutions to address and mitigate these crimes has become increasingly apparent.

Conclusion and Community Impact

The recent armed robberies targeting congressional staffers have highlighted the escalating issue of violent crime in Washington, D.C.

Staffers for Reps.Dan Bishop and Mike Collins were victims of the same group of suspects in two separate incidents.

As violent crime continues to surge, local leaders and victims alike emphasize the urgent need for more robust crime prevention measures to ensure the safety of all those who live and work in the nation's capital.