World
Reflecting Pool Vandalism Case Dismissed
The U.S. Department of Justice has dropped its criminal prosecution against David Hearn, who was accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, citing a 'rushed and botched installation'.
Coverage timeline — 2 articles
NPR
The government had accused David Hearn of ripping a piece of sealant after a $14 million renovation. Hearn has repeatedly said that he simply touched the water in the pool out of curiosity last month.
2026-07-31 23:24 UTC
The Hill
The Department of Justice (DOJ) moved Friday to drop its criminal prosecution of a former Olympian charged with destroying the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, saying the damage was instead the result of a “rushed and botched installation.” U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s office blamed the contracto
2026-07-31 23:02 UTC