The US Justice Department has dropped its case against David Hearn, a 67-year-old former Olympian, who was accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Hearn had faced felony vandalism charges in federal court, carrying a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
Federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro initially announced the charges earlier in July 2026, stating that witnesses saw Hearn "forcefully and violently" pulling up the pool's new liner on June 19. However, in a court filing on Friday, August 1, 2026, Pirro moved for dismissal, citing new revelations that "undermine the evidentiary basis for the indictment."
The new documents indicate that the damage to the landmark was the result of a botched installation during renovations, not vandalism as previously represented by the Interior Department. The renovation, personally overseen by former President Donald Trump, included adding an "American flag blue" liner as part of several beautification projects ahead of the July 4 celebration of America's 250th anniversary. The painting and sealing project was estimated to cost at least $14 million.
Hearn, who competed in three Olympic Summer Games in canoeing, told US media he noticed a piece of partially detached liner after visiting the refurbished pool following a long bike ride.
Legal representatives Norm Eisen, Mary Dohrmann, and Steve Levin stated that the case "should never have been brought," arguing it reflected a politicized justice system under Trump. In June, President Trump had warned that there was a 10-year prison sentence for the destruction or attempted destruction of such landmarks, which "will be fully enforced."
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