Former Olympian Fighting Charge of Vandalism at Reflecting Pool

David Hearn, a former Olympic canoe racer, plans to contest a misdemeanor charge after allegedly vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. He insists his actions were not criminal.

On Friday, Hearn, 67, was detained by National Guard troops and U.S. Park Police for five hours. He reached into the pool to inspect paint peeling away, amidst a $14 million renovation. “I did nothing wrong,” Hearn stated in an interview regarding the charge of destruction of government property.

Hearn, residing in Bethesda, Maryland, expressed concerns over consequences, especially as President Donald Trump announced more arrests related to damage at the Reflecting Pool. Hearn remarked on Tuesday, “I think I might be the only person whose name is public of those arrests or citations.”

Newsweek contacted the U.S. Park Police, National Park Service, Department of Justice, and Department of Interior for comments. Hearn feels targeted by the Trump administration following claims of vandalism, including alleged fertilizer dumping and a 350-foot gash in the pool liner.

“I feel like I was targeted and I’m feeling singled out—definitely,” stated Hearn, who worries about potential jail time. “Yes, especially with the current posture of the government toward ignoring the rule of law and people’s civil rights and such.”

Hearn’s attorney, Norm Eisen, plans to fight the charge, which is punishable by a fine up to $100,000 or one year in jail if damage is under $100. Eisen emphasized issues like the project’s corrupt no-bid contracting process and accused authorities of using the justice system to divert attention.

On Tuesday, President Trump announced arrests and citations related to the algae bloom at the Reflecting Pool. He described significant damage, including several slashes over 350 feet, linked to alleged criminal activity.

Trump mentioned grass replacement nearby, referencing the numbers “8647” carved into browned grass at the National Mall earlier in June. He assured repairs would be made around July 4th to restore the pool’s beauty.

Hearn clarified his actions, stating he reached into the water to grab a loose piece of liner. He commented to The Washington Post, “I didn’t destroy or break or peel anything. By the time I realized what was going on, I was being put in handcuffs.”