WASHINGTON -- The Justice Department has opened an investigation into whether police officials in Washington, D.C., have falsified data to make crime rates appear lower than they are, according to two people familiar with the probe who weren't authorized to publicly discuss an open investigation.

The Department of Justice is reportedly investigating whether the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, D.C., has been manipulating crime statistics following allegations made by President Donald Trump and the head of the district’s police union.

The Department of Justice is investigating whether police in Washington, D.C., manipulated crime data and statistics.

"While federal assistance gives us a boost, we must repeal the misguided Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Act in order to make these changes permanent," the union said

The District of Columbia government has given thousands of dollars in grant money meant to combat gun violence to an array of social justice causes.

The Justice Department is investigating whether D.C.’s Metropolitan Police Department manipulated crime data to make crime rates appear lower, two senior law enforcement officials tell NBC News.

The federal government takes control of Washington DC police operations as DEA Administrator Terry Cole seeks to enforce immigration compliance and reduce crime.

At least one high-ranking officer has been suspended so far over the disturbing allegations, which the DC Police Union has said effectively reflect standard operating procedure.