Podcaster's Claims About D.C. Crime Contradicted by Records

Following President Trump's announcement of federal law enforcement intervention in Washington, the White House extended an invitation to podcaster Benny Johnson to occupy the "new media seat" during a press briefing. This position grants the individual the privilege of being called upon first by the press secretary, Karoline Leavitt.

During the briefing, Mr. Johnson shared his personal experiences with crime in Washington, D.C. He claimed to have recorded murders outside his home and stated that his own house had been set ablaze in an act of arson. He asserted that any claims denying the city's dangerousness were false.

Mr. Johnson expressed gratitude to Ms. Leavitt, stating that the administration was making the city safe and that no parent should endure the hardships his family had faced.

However, police records present a different picture. No murders have been recorded on the block where Mr. Johnson resided since at least 2017. While his home was not burned, his neighbor's house was intentionally set on fire, according to the city's fire department. Mr. Johnson permanently relocated from Washington in 2021.