Don Diego Chase, 25, of Washington D.C., was arrested on U Street and is now facing federal firearms and drug charges. His indictment is part of the "Make D.C. Safe Again" initiative, which aims to reduce violent crime in the city. The charges were announced by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood, and Metropolitan Police Chief Pamela Smith, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
This initiative focuses on increasing resources in areas affected by gun violence, enforcing stricter penalties for offenders, and seeking detention for those who break federal firearms laws. Chase was indicted as part of this effort. He faces three charges: illegal possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of Oxycodone with intent to distribute, and having a firearm while involved in drug trafficking, as reported by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
On July 24, 2024, members of the Third District Crime Suppression Unit attempted to stop Chase during a patrol, but he ran. During the chase, officers saw a black, L-shaped object fall from him, which was later identified as a loaded, stolen 9mm HS Product XDM firearm. After his arrest, police found over 500 Oxycodone pills and $11,621.96 in cash. Authorities say the case is part of an ongoing issue involving illegal drugs and firearms. No additional details have been released, as stated by the U.S. Attorney's Office.
