A judge has dismissed the criminal case against David Hearn, a former Olympian, related to alleged damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. This decision follows the federal prosecutors’ earlier withdrawal of the case. They determined that the damage resulted from faulty installation, not vandalism.
Judge Todd Edelman noted the prosecutors’ decision in dismissing the case, stating, “Within a month, the government recognized that its prosecution lacked merit.” The judge emphasized that the prosecution was not due to misidentifying Hearn but because no crime occurred. Given the minimal potential for future prosecution and concerns about politically motivated charges, the court dismissed the case with prejudice.
“This case never should have been brought in the first place,” Hearn’s attorneys stated. “It was a miscarriage of justice, and what happened to Mr. Hearn is an outrage that should shock every American.”
The dismissal with prejudice ensures the case cannot be filed again on the same grounds. Hearn’s lawyers described the decision as a protection against unjust prosecution.
Attempts to contact the White House and Hearn, who expressed feeling targeted during his arrest, were unsuccessful.
Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Renovation Project
Renovations at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool aimed to restore its appearance and solve long-standing issues with algae. A new coating called “American flag blue” was applied to the pool’s bottom. Despite efforts, algae quickly returned.
President Donald Trump had claimed vandals caused a significant cut in the new liner, sparking controversy. Hearn was arrested in June, accused of damaging the liner when reaching into the pool. Authorities initially charged him with causing damages over $1,000, a felony that could lead to a 10-year prison sentence. Hearn consistently denied these allegations.
With the case dismissed, Hearn is free from the threat of renewed prosecution. His attorneys stated that the dismissal represents a victory for both the rule of law and Hearn’s pursuit of justice.