Newly appointed Interim U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Jeanine Pirro, is wasting no time in making her mark. Sworn in just weeks ago, Pirro has launched a sweeping crackdown on violent crime, drug trafficking, and public safety threats across the nation’s capital.
A Week of Major Cases
In a single week, Pirro’s office announced multiple convictions and sentences:
Robbers sentenced for kidnapping and assaulting a woman in her own home.
Three men sentenced for fentanyl trafficking.
A marijuana dealer who also possessed a machine gun sentenced to 27 months in federal prison.
A father found guilty by a jury of first-degree child sexual abuse involving his 12-year-old child.
Pirro’s team has also been pursuing large-scale drug conspiracies that have plagued D.C. neighborhoods.
Major Drug Trafficking Conspiracy Dismantled
Last week, two D.C. men—Jamiek “Onion” Bassil, 32, and Charles “Cheese” Manson, 34—were sentenced to 135 months and 175 months in federal prison, respectively. Prosecutors say they were central figures in a fentanyl and crack cocaine distribution network tied to the “21st and Vietnam” crew, which controlled an open-air drug market in Northeast D.C.
According to court documents, the group’s operations centered around the 2100 block of Maryland Avenue, NE, where they sold narcotics daily.
Bassil pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Manson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of a handgun in furtherance of drug trafficking, and assault with a dangerous weapon.
Tied to a 2024 Shooting
The case also revealed that Manson was involved in a March 7, 2024 shooting in the 1900 block of I Street, NE—just steps from his home. Witnesses say Manson approached a dog walker while wearing a ski mask and carrying a revolver, then opened fire, narrowly missing both the person and the dog. He was arrested eight days later.
Authorities believe the shooting stemmed from a dispute between members of the crew and the dog’s owner.
Pirro’s Pledge to “Clean Up D.C.”
Since taking office, Pirro has vowed to target repeat offenders, dismantle drug networks, and push for tougher sentences on violent criminals.
“We are sending a clear message—if you endanger our neighborhoods, traffic deadly drugs, or commit acts of violence, you will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law,” Pirro said.
Her aggressive start signals that the District can expect an uncompromising approach to law and order under her leadership.
