Jeanine Pirro Raises Concerns on Crime After Democratic Socialist’s Win

Jeanine Pirro, a former U.S. Attorney for DC, appeared on Fox & Friends to discuss the primary victory of Democratic Socialist Janesse Lewis George. Pirro expressed worries about George’s stance against teen curfews and ICE policies. She compared this with President Trump’s initiatives, which resulted in a 23% crime reduction in DC.

Federal prosecutors have initiated an uncommon special grand jury investigation into truancy, graduation rates, and attendance records in D.C. public schools. As reported by The Washington Post, this investigation focuses on oversight and supervision of youth in the capital. A law enforcement official told Fox News the effort is aimed at protecting young people.

Teachers and staff at several D.C. Public Schools have been recently approached regarding student absences, graduation methods, and attendance documentation. At least one person has already given testimony before the panel, with more expected to do so soon.

The office of U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro is leading the grand jury’s inquiry, which is considered unusual due to the necessity of judicial approval to form such a panel. This allows for a thorough investigation and can lead to a comprehensive report, even if no criminal charges are filed.

A spokesperson for Pirro’s office declined to confirm or deny any investigation to The Washington Post. Meanwhile, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized a focus on the new school year, stating a commitment to transparency in school data.

Senior prosecutor Steven Vandervelden, a prominent figure in Pirro’s team, is overseeing this investigation. Pirro has consistently linked absenteeism and school truancy to youth crime and disorder. During a press conference in May, she warned that legal action might follow against teenagers repeatedly violating curfews or school attendance rules.

Pirro’s office sought records of students accused of chronic truancy, although the city did not provide these willingly.

This is not the first time D.C. schools faced challenges. A graduation scandal in 2018, initially focused on Ballou High School, revealed diplomas were awarded to students who didn’t meet attendance or coursework requirements. The issue affected multiple schools, leading to stricter enforcement of attendance regulations.

Despite efforts, absenteeism remains a problem. During the 2023-24 academic year, nearly 16,000 D.C. Public Schools students were reported truant after missing at least two weeks of classes without justification.

The special grand jury’s activities coincide with the beginning of a new academic year for over 50,000 students in D.C.’s school system.