Ex-Olympian Denies Charges in Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Vandalism Case

A former Olympic canoeist pleaded not guilty in federal court Thursday to charges of damaging the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a case that has attracted national scrutiny amid allegations the Trump administration is attempting to deflect blame for a troubled renovation project.

David “Davey” Hearn, a 67-year-old three-time Olympian, entered his plea after prosecutors accused him of “maliciously” pulling at the “American flag blue” liner installed at the bottom of the pool at President Donald Trump’s request. The liner was added ahead of Independence Day celebrations marking the nation’s 250th anniversary on the National Mall. Federal prosecutors allege Hearn caused more than $1,000 in damage on June 19 and face a charge of destruction of government property, which carries a maximum 10-year prison sentence.

Hearn denies the allegations. He acknowledged stopping at the pool during a bike ride and touching a section of lining that was already peeling away, but insists he did not remove or damage it. He told The Associated Press he released the material when a park employee instructed him to stop.

Hearn’s attorneys argue the prosecution represents an effort by the administration to shift attention from what they describe as a botched renovation.

“This indictment reflects the administration’s effort to shift blame for their own failures,” the defense team said in a statement. “The justice system exists to determine facts, not to provide political cover.”

The 2,030-foot reflecting pool reopened in June following a $14.7 million renovation ordered by Trump, who said he was compelled to act after a friend visiting from Germany described the pool as dark and disgusting. Within days, however, algae spread across the surface, the water turned a chartreuse green, and sections of the liner began peeling away.

Experts have noted that the dark paint at the bottom of the pool would elevate water temperatures and promote algae growth, a common occurrence in shallow, stagnant water during summer months.

Trump blamed the deterioration on vandals, claiming without evidence that “corrosive and destructive chemicals” were poured into the pool and that individuals used knives to slash the liner. No one has been charged in connection with those alleged acts. The president warned on Truth Social that anyone damaging the pool could face the full enforcement of the 10-year statutory maximum.

Last week, U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro announced the grand jury indictment against Hearn. The Department of the Interior said at least six people were arrested on suspicion of vandalizing the pool in the weeks after it reopened. National Guard troops and U.S. Park Police were deployed to protect the site, which was fenced off during July 4 festivities.

Thursday’s hearing drew a packed courtroom, with dozens of supporters gathered outside. The pool’s problems have persisted, with Trump acknowledging it will need to be drained again so the damaged liner can be repaired.

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