Attorneys for former Olympian David Hearn are urging federal oversight bodies to conduct thorough investigations into his recent prosecution. After a judge exonerated him from accusations of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, the attorneys are seeking accountability.
In a detailed letter obtained by Newsweek, Hearn’s legal team addressed inspectors general from the Departments of Justice and Interior. Their request entails coordinated, independent reviews of events surrounding Hearn’s June 19 arrest and subsequent legal proceedings. Last week, the court resolved the case in Hearn’s favor.
Due to actions by DOJ and DOI personnel, Mr. Hearn faced unjust imprisonment, faced false criminal charges, and risked a decade behind bars. High-profile figures like the United States Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro, Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum, and President Donald J. Trump tarnished his name,
the letter asserts.
The letter emphasizes the need to probe Hearn’s treatment, which they describe as “shocking and indefensible.” Hearn’s attorneys state that the DOJ and DOI wrongfully subjected him to arrest, indictment, and public defamation. They argue this was used to conceal a failed renovation project.
Federal prosecutors initially linked the Reflecting Pool damage to vandalism. However, subsequent findings attributed the issue to faulty installation. Judge Todd Edelman cleared Hearn of charges after this revelation.
Hearn’s attorneys demand inquiries into his arrest, detention, and the rush to indict him. They also call for scrutiny of evidence preservation and actions by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro. Despite evidence revealing installation defects, Hearn faced charges, misleading the court.
In July, Pirro dismissed the case post-disclosure from the Department of Interior. The new details indicated contractor error in a hurried effort for America’s 250th anniversary in Washington.
The attorneys’ letter urges a comprehensive investigation by DOJ and DOI Inspector General offices.
Hearn regards the case dismissal as a democratic triumph. “I am profoundly thankful for support from loved ones, my community, and the public,” he shared with Newsweek. “This ordeal highlights the importance of vigilance against power abuse, protecting our democracy is crucial,” he concluded.