Trump Disagrees with Dismissal of Vandalism Charge at Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

President Donald Trump expressed opposition to his local prosecutor’s decision regarding the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool damage case. He characterized the incident as vandalism, contrary to federal findings of contractor failures.

Trump stated on Truth Social that he disagreed entirely with U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, who sought to dismiss a felony case against ex-U.S. Olympian David Hearn, accused of harming the site on June 19 despite a warning from a National Park Service employee.

In addition to the Reflecting Pool incident, Trump mentioned separate vandalism involving large numerals ’86 47′ marked on the grass. U.S. Park Police linked these numbers to an anti-Trump political slogan.

Pirro’s office dropped charges against Hearn after uncovering flaws in the renovation project, initially blaming widespread damage on contractor Atlantic Industrial Coatings.

Trump acknowledged potential project issues but maintained that vandalism played a key role in the damage. He refuted the Justice Department’s attribution to construction flaws.

Hearn faced indictment for suspected destruction of property, with authorities estimating over $1,000 in damage. Prosecutors claimed the Department of the Interior withheld crucial documents showing premature installation failure.

A no-bid contract exceeding $14 million was awarded to Atlantic Industrial Coatings to line the Reflecting Pool’s 68,000-square-foot floor. Although work began in May, rain and expansion joint problems slowed progress. Shortly after project completion, signs of peeling were reported.

Hearn’s legal counsel criticized the government’s expedited prosecution, calling for an apology. They argued the dismissal doesn’t rectify the alleged misuse of power in arresting and charging Hearn.

Fox News reached out to Pirro’s office for comments following the dismissal. Elaine Mallon reports on national politics for Fox News Digital and Fox Business.