David Hearn, a 67-year-old former Olympic canoe racer who competed for the United States three times, pleaded not guilty on Thursday to a single felony count of property destruction for allegedly damaging the newly renovated reflecting pool on Washington's National Mall. The incident occurred on June 19, 2024, amid a $14.7 million refurbishment project ordered by former President Donald Trump as part of the 250th anniversary celebration of US independence.
Allegations and Court Proceedings
According to the indictment, Hearn is accused of “maliciously” breaking or destroying the “American flag blue” lining material on the bottom of the 2,000-foot-long (600-meter) pool. The renovation, which was intended to restore the pool's iconic appearance, has been plagued by problems, including a bloom of algae that turned the water green and pieces of the blue liner peeling off.
During the court appearance in Washington DC's local superior court, Hearn entered his not guilty plea. Jeanine Pirro, the US attorney for Washington DC, stated last Thursday that prosecutors have “tremendous evidence” that Hearn “forcefully and violently” pulled up and removed the bottom liner, causing more than $1,000 in damage.
Hearn's Denial and Defense
Hearn, who also cycles, denied removing anything from the pool. He acknowledged that his bike tire may have touched a hose that National Park Service workers were using to clear algae, but insisted he did not vandalize anything. “I didn't vandalize anything,” Hearn told 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.”
His attorneys have characterized the charges as based on a “concocted narrative” that “should be alarming to every American.” They argue that the evidence does not support the allegations and that Hearn was unfairly targeted.
Legal Next Steps
Hearn was released on a personal recognizance bond after the hearing. The judge ordered a status hearing scheduled for August 5, 2024, to determine further proceedings in the case.
