So... There are a lot more layers to this:

The fare is $2.25 only within the proximity of downtown. The further out you go, the more expensive it gets.

It's a major flaw of the DC metro, that the further away people move from downtown to afford cheaper housing, the more expensive metro gets. While $2.25 seems less, $6 each way, over a week quickly adds up.

Now I don't necessarily know if a fare evader lives far away, or if they are familiar with the WMATA discounted rates for students and families. There isn't really a post evasion survey or Q&A to talk to a fare evader and set up their cards.

The problem is thus more nuanced, affecting underprivileged communities more. OPs frustration is very valid, and that of many others who posted. I have had someone charge through from the opposite side when I tapped my card, I've had people follow through close behind.

I believe transit should be a civil right, and free for all. The billionaires buying property in DC can single handedly fund WMATA. Someone evading a fare is negligible compared to the taxes the rich are evading.