In brief
Former Olympic canoeist David "Davey" Hearn, 67, has been indicted for allegedly vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after he was seen touching its newly applied coating. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro cited $1,000 in damage and a felony destruction-of-property charge. Trump criticized vandals on social media and pledged a repair, while park officials note five arrests and five citations linked to the site. The pool’s recent $14 million overhaul has suffered from leaks, algae, and sealant peeling, reigniting scrutiny over its maintenance.
Former Olympian indicted for allegedly vandalising Washington Reflecting Pool
Former Olympic canoeist David "Davey" Hearn, 67, has been charged with vandalism after authorities saw him touch the freshly applied coating on the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Hearn claims he was simply curious and did not damage the pool.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said Hearn caused about $1,000 worth of damage and faces a felony charge of destruction of property. Trump blamed vandals for the peeling sealant and pledged immediate repairs.
Officials note the pool has struggled with leaks, algae, and structural deterioration even after a $14 million renovation. Five people have been arrested and five others cited for vandalism connected to the Reflecting Pool.
Trump posted on social media that he inspected the pool on 20 June, calling the act "sick, deranged people."
The Reflecting Pool, built in the 1920s, stretches 2,030 ft (619 m) between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
