A group of prominent religious leaders in Washington, D.C. is sharply criticizing President Donald Trump's federal takeover of the District's police force, saying his rhetoric is inflammatory, dehumanizing and counterproductive to ensuring public safety.

Trump, in remarks justifying his plan to assume control of the D.C. police and deploy the National Guard, described the city as "overrun by violent gangs, blood thirsty criminals, roving mobs of youth, drugged out maniacs and homeless people." The religious leaders said such language increases the risk of indiscriminate arrests and excessive use of force.

"From the White House, the president sees a lawless wasteland. We beg to differ," the group said in a joint statement . "We see fellow human beings—neighbors, workers, friends and f

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