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Februa rry 5 591969 :15.00m MEMORANDUM TO BUCHANAN I have received a phone report from Don Santarelli subsequent to my last memorandum to you on the status of the D.C. anti-crime effort. His report indicates a great deal of activity, but I fear most of it is in the area of study. I think we can muster enough to give the President some material for the press conference, but this is a matter that might require some follow-up. Presidential rhetoric on this issue must be matched by Presidential action. Frankly, I don't think we can afford to study this stuff much longer. Consideration should at least be given to creating the impression of continuing Presidential action. This is an issue which the President should keep his hands on -- the ball should not be passed to Justice, except in an operational sense. Based on a review of Santarelli s s report, I continue to believe that it would be desirable for the President to issue some Directives and get at least a limited D.C. Crime message up to the Hill as soon as possible. It need not be all inclusive, but it should keep up the Presidential momentum. Attached is a possible Q.&A. for use by the President. Huston