This morning, Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at approximately 7:20 a.m., an unauthorized remote user caused interference on our radio system relied on by the Metropolitan Police Department. On-site technicians immediately identified and blocked the unauthorized user from the system. The Office of Unified Communications, the Office of the Chief Technology Officer, and local authorities are investigating the incident and will enforce all laws pertaining to public safety radio communications.

UPDATE (Mar 12, 2025, 5:02 PM): 

Earlier today (Wednesday, March 12, 2025), the Office of Unified Communications (OUC) shared information related to an unauthorized remote user that caused interference with OUC’s radio system relied on by the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). The incident investigation, conducted by OUC and the Federal Communications Commission, has concluded. There was no malice associated with the incident as it was caused by a faulty bi-directional antenna located in a building within the District. Installers are working to correct the issue. This morning, the radio system was impacted for approximately 12 minutes and there was no total loss of service. Property owners and managers should familiarize themselves with bi-directional antenna requirements for the District of Columbia.

The District’s bi-directional antenna requirements are available on OUC's website, https://ouc.dc.gov/page/oucs-public-safety-building-radio-systems-requirements.