Trump’s Reflecting Pool saga takes another twist as DOJ drops more charges

WorldPolitics
4 Aug 2026 • 10:49 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Trump’s Reflecting Pool saga takes another twist as DOJ drops more charges

  • The Department of Justice dismissed felony charges against Olympian David Hearn and misdemeanor charges against three other individuals accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
  • Prosecutors determined that the pool's bright green algae and peeling paint resulted from a flawed installation by the contractor, not intentional damage.
  • The president publicly criticized U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for dropping the charges, stating she "choked" and insisting that vandals were responsible for the damage.
  • Attorneys for the defendants welcomed the dismissals, with one lawyer noting the case "should never have been brought" and another highlighting that his client lost his job due to the arrest.
  • The Reflecting Pool has since been drained and is undergoing new repairs, though the White House has not disclosed the expected cost or timeline for completion.

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