“The Washington Reflection Pool was vandalized.”

Reflecting Pool Contractor Admits ‘Human Oversight’—Not Vandals—Led To Peeling, Report SaysReflecting Pool Contractor Admits ‘Human Oversight’—Not Vandals—Led To Peeling, Report Says Subscribe: Less than $2/wk 5+ My AccountNotifications DAILY COVER STORY ‘More Content Is Always Great:’ Inside Pocket FM’s $400 Million Content Farm 10h ago BREAKING Trump Makes GOP Convention Attendees Pledge To Vote And ‘Cheat Like Hell’ In Bizarre Moment 15h ago FORBES DAILY AI researchers warn technology could wipe out humanity. 1d ago DAILY COVER STORY The 25 Colleges With The Highest Payoff 1d ago BREAKING …

The contractor that refurbished the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool acknowledged that its own faulty work — not sabotage — led the newly installed liner to become damaged, according to a new report.… Bookmark * 4Comments Go to comments ## Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks Close popover Trump appears at 9/11 remembrance ceremony at Pentagon Inside Washington ### Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox ### Get our free Inside Washington email ### Get our free Inside Washington email Inside Washington Email\* SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The contractor that refurbished the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool acknowledged that its own faulty work — not sabotage — led the newly installed liner to become damaged, according to a new report. President Donald Trump repeatedly blamed vandals after sections of the liner began peeling away shortly after the president’s multimillion-dollar refurbishment was completed this summer. “I saw it. They cut it. They cut it very violently,” Trump told reporters in June, alleging that a “box-cutter or a knife of some kind” had caused what he described as a “350-foot slit” in the pool’s lining. …

Atlantic Industrial Coatings was given $14.7m no-bid contract and its findings contradict president’s claims of vandalism… Support us Support us Print subscriptions Newsletters Sign in A partially drained reflecting pool. Equipment in the drained Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington DC, on 7 September 2026. Photograph: Tierney L Cross/Reuters View image in fullscreen Equipment in the drained Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool in Washington DC, on 7 September 2026. Photograph: Tierney L Cross/Reuters Washington DC # Company hired for Trump’s reflecting pool makeover reportedly admits flaws in plan Atlantic Industrial Coatings was given $14.7m no-bid contract and its findings contradict president’s claims of vandalism Marina Dunbar Fri 11 Sep 2026 16.30 EDT Share Prefer the Guardian on Google The company hired to renovate the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool has acknowledged tha

It was not until after these documents were produced that USAO-DC first became aware of information showing that the damage was the result ofa botched installation and not vandalism as initially represented by DOI. … Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt.… after the return of the indictment, that the DOI provided additional documents to the USAO-DC indicating that damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in June 2026 was the result of flawed installation by the contractor, Atlantic Industrial Coatings (“AIC”), and the rush to complete the project prior to events associated with the America 250 celebration in the weeks surrounding Independence Day 2026. It was not until after these documents were produced that USAO-DC first became aware of information showing that the damage was the result ofa botched installation and not vandalism as initially represented by DOI. Indeed, USAO-DC could only rely (on the information provided by DOI that the damage was entirely caused by vandals, including the defendant in this case, David Hearn, Because these recently-produced materials significantly undermine the evidentiary basis for the indictment initially supplied by the DOI and U.S. Park Police, the USAO-DC respectfully moves to dismiss the indictment without prejudice. 1. The Initial Information Provided to the Government … The engineer's report also suggests that removing the liner at the perimeter would have had no negative impact on the economic value of the liner. Moreover, the July 20, 2026, inspection by contractors confirmed that overspray and delamination had ‘occurred, again pointing to contractor error. Finally, a recent visual inspection showed damage throughout the Reflecting Pool, even in the middle of the pool, where a vandal would not likely attempt to peel the lining. Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt. For all of these reasons, the government, in the exercise of its prosecutorial discretion, respectfully requests that the indictment be dismissed without prejudice.

A court filing by a National Park Service official said that a liner on the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool was "cut with a sharp knife or razor." … The declaration signed by Deputy Director for the National Park Service Frank Lands, said: "On June 9, 2026, after the rehabilitation project was substantially complete, the U.S. Park Police responded to an NPS report of damage to the reflecting pool, including a caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material. In addition, approximately 70 fence post tops were thrown into the pool."National Park Service workers use vacuum pumps to clean algae off the bottom of the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on Saturday. A court filing alleges that vandals cut the pool's lining with a sharp knife. Photo by Pat Benic/UPI | License Photo June 26 (UPI) -- A court filing by a National Park Service official said that a liner on the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool was "cut with a sharp knife or razor." The document was filed on Wednesday as part of a lawsuit to stop the renovation of the pool, brought by the Cultural Landscape Foundation, and continues President Donald Trump's claims that vandals damaged the reflecting pool. The declaration signed by Deputy Director for the National Park Service Frank Lands, said: "On June 9, 2026, after the rehabilitation project was substantially complete, the U.S. Park Police responded to an NPS report of damage to the reflecting pool, including a caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material. In addition, approximately 70 fence post tops were thrown into the pool." A Department of the Interior spokesperson told ABC News that the alleged "vandalism was under investigation and believed to be isolated."

An incident of alleged vandalism involving a "sharp knife or razor" used to cut caulk at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was revealed in a federal court filing overnight -- an incident that happened shortly after the rehabbed structure was filled again with water.Trump alleges vandalism at Reflecting Pool President Donald Trump is alleging vandalism at the landmark, which is undergoing a multimillion-dollar renovation. The administration says six people have been arrested. An incident of alleged vandalism involving a "sharp knife or razor" used to cut caulk at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was revealed in a federal court filing overnight -- an incident that happened shortly after the rehabbed structure was filled again with water. According to a declaration by Deputy Director for the National Park Service Frank Lands, "On June 9, 2026, after the rehabilitation project was substantially complete, the U.S. Park Police responded to an NPS report of damage to the reflecting pool, including a caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material. In addition, approximately 70 fence post tops were thrown into the pool."

At least five people have been arrested for alleged vandalism related to the Reflecting Pool, and five additional people were issued federal citations, according to the U.S. Park Police.… In an exchange with CBS News senior White House correspondent Ed O'Keefe earlier this week, Mr. Trump insisted that vandals, rather than other problems with the work, are responsible for the damage seen following the $14.7 million sealant job. The water has also been plagued by a resurgence of algae. Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Peeling is seen in the blue coating on the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on June 24, 2026. AP Photo/Rahmat Gul At least five people have been arrested for alleged vandalism related to the Reflecting Pool, and five additional people were issued federal citations, according to the U.S. Park Police. But details of the evidence have not been released. "Yeah, at the right time you'll see it," Mr. Trump said of evidence of damage to the pool. "You'll see it in court. You'll see it in court, but all you have to do is call the Parks Department, call the Department of Interior." ### More from CBS News * #### Ex-CIA official found with $40 million in gold bars in plea deal talks * #### Trump says Ukraine needs to stop targeting Russian refineries

A liner along the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was cut with a sharp knife or razor this month, causing damage to the foam sealant installed as part of a $16 million rehabilitation project, a top official at the National Park Service says. … The police report indicates damage to the pool, "including a caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material,'' Lands said. About 70 fence post tops also were thrown into the pool, he said.Politics Updated on Jun 25, 2026 5:23 PM EDT — Published on Jun 25, 2026 12:42 PM EDT WASHINGTON (AP) — A liner along the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was cut with a sharp knife or razor this month, causing damage to the foam sealant installed as part of a $16 million rehabilitation project, a top official at the National Park Service says. The U.S. Park Police responded June 9 to a complaint by the park service, said Frank Lands, deputy director of operations for the park service. Lands made the statement in a court document filed late Wednesday as part of a lawsuit filed by a nonprofit organization to halt the Trump administration's work on the project. His statement does not say when exactly the damage occurred or whether it was a suspected case of vandalism and does not identify anyone who might have been involved. The police report indicates damage to the pool, "including a caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material,'' Lands said. About 70 fence post tops also were thrown into the pool, he said. The statements are the first time the Republican administration has offered specifics for when and how the Reflecting Pool may have been damaged after work on the project was substantially completed.

US Justice Department says 'flawed' work led to Reflecting Pool peelingUS Justice Department says 'flawed' work led to Reflecting Pool peeling | Reuters Skip to main content Exclusive news, data and analytics for financial market professionalsLearn more aboutRefinitiv Subscribe # US Justice Department says 'flawed' work led to Reflecting Pool peeling By Kanishka Singh and Andrew Goudsward July 31, 202610:12 PM UTCUpdated August 1, 2026 Text * Small Text * Medium Text * Large Text * X * Facebook * Linkedin * Email * Link The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington …

The Trump administration has admitted that the damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was the result of a botched installation by President Donald Trump’s contractor – not vandalism, as Trump and his team have repeatedly claimed. … But in court on Friday, Pirro admitted: “The damage was the result of a botched installation and not vandalism as initially represented by the Department of the Interior.”Updated August 1, 2026 — 11:03am, first published 10:02am Washington: The Trump administration has admitted that the damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was the result of a botched installation by President Donald Trump’s contractor – not vandalism, as Trump and his team have repeatedly claimed. In a Friday afternoon court filing (US time), Trump’s handpicked federal prosecutor in Washington, Jeanine Pirro, moved to dismiss criminal charges against former Olympic athlete David Hearn, whom the administration wrongly accused of vandalising the memorial. … Trump repeatedly blamed vandals for the damage without evidence, alleging they had cut the flooring with a box cutter. AP Photo/Allison Robbert But in court on Friday, Pirro admitted: “The damage was the result of a botched installation and not vandalism as initially represented by the Department of the Interior.” The new documents “significantly undermine the evidentiary basis for the indictment”, she added.

A section of the liner that runs at the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was cut with a sharp knife or razor earlier this month, according to an official at the National Park Service (NPS). … Earlier this week, six people were arrested and accused of vandalizing the pool, including a former Olympic athlete.by Finya Swai - 06/25/26 2:07 PM ET A section of the liner that runs at the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was cut with a sharp knife or razor earlier this month, according to an official at the National Park Service (NPS). According to a sworn declaration filed Wednesday, the U.S. Park Police responded to a report from the NPS about damage to the foam sealant. The court document was part of a broader lawsuit challenging the Trump administration’s efforts to renovate the pool. … Lands confirmed the drainage in the statement to the court, stating the agency plans to begin after July 4. Earlier this week, six people were arrested and accused of vandalizing the pool, including a former Olympic athlete. Rising: September 18, 2026

The U.S. Park Police has released CCTV images and video from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as part of a "destruction of government property" investigation, as scrutiny grows over claims the newly renovated landmark was deliberately damaged. … In a June 24 court filing, National Park Service Deputy Director Frank Lands said that damage to the pool included "caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material," and that "approximately 70 fence post tops were thrown into the pool."Senior Reporter The U.S. Park Police has released CCTV images and video from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool as part of a "destruction of government property" investigation, as scrutiny grows over claims the newly renovated landmark was deliberately damaged. The agency shared stills and footage on Wednesday from June 19 that appear to show an individual kneeling by the pool and reaching into the water around 3:30 p.m., but it did not describe the person as a suspect nor specify their gender. … While authorities have now released images and video as part of an active investigation, the footage does not appear to show the types of damage the president described, and officials have not publicly disclosed evidence substantiating those specific claims about the scale or cause of the problems. In a June 24 court filing, National Park Service Deputy Director Frank Lands said that damage to the pool included "caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material," and that "approximately 70 fence post tops were thrown into the pool." He added that officials plan to begin draining the reflecting pool after July 4 to carry out repairs and assess damage to its lining.

An incident of alleged vandalism involving a "sharp knife or razor" used to cut caulk at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was revealed in a federal court filing overnight -- an incident that happened shortly after the rehabbed structure was filled again with water.June 25, 2026, 10:15 PM An incident of alleged vandalism involving a "sharp knife or razor" used to cut caulk at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was revealed in a federal court filing overnight -- an incident that happened shortly after the rehabbed structure was filled again with water. According to a declaration by Deputy Director for the National Park Service Frank Lands, "On June 9, 2026, after the rehabilitation project was substantially complete, the U.S. Park Police responded to an NPS report of damage to the reflecting pool, including a caulk over the foam sealant that was cut with a sharp knife or razor and destruction of delaminating surface material. In addition, approximately 70 fence post tops were thrown into the pool."

President Donald Trump on Saturday rejected the Justice Department’s conclusion that problems with the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool stemmed from a flawed renovation rather than vandalism.Updated Aug 1, 2026, 4:48 PM ET PUBLISHED Jul 31, 2026, 5:59 PM ET President Donald Trump on Saturday rejected the Justice Department’s conclusion that problems with the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool stemmed from a flawed renovation rather than vandalism. “I disagree 100% with Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, on the Reflecting Pool. I don’t know what she was thinking? To me, it was a pure case of VANDALISM,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

US prosecutors have dropped charges against a former Olympian who had been accused of vandalising the Reflecting Pool in Washington DC, saying the damage is now believed to be "the result of flawed installation by the contractor".Getty Images US prosecutors have dropped charges against a former Olympian who had been accused of vandalising the Reflecting Pool in Washington DC, saying the damage is now believed to be "the result of flawed installation by the contractor". A court document filed on Friday said new information "strongly suggests that a rushed and botched installation" job overseen by the US Department of the Interior led to the damage.

Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt," said the filing from U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.Government lawyers said in a 20-page court filing that information provided since the indictment of David Hearn shows that the damage was the result of a "flawed installation by the contractor" as well as "the rush to complete the project prior to events associated with the America 250 celebration in the weeks surrounding Independence Day 2026." "Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt," said the filing from U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro. Hearn's lawyers said in a statement that the case against him should never have been brought.

The Justice Department moved to dismiss the criminal case against Olympian David Hearn, who was alleged to have vandalized the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting pool, acknowledging the damage to the pool "was the result of flawed installation by the contractor." … The filing from her office on Friday concluded: "Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt."Trump doubles down on Reflecting Pool vandalism claims President Donald Trump says he disagrees with the U.S. attorney for dropping vandalism charges against former Olympian. The Justice Department moved to dismiss the criminal case against Olympian David Hearn, who was alleged to have vandalized the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting pool, acknowledging the damage to the pool "was the result of flawed installation by the contractor." Hearn pleaded not guilty to a felony destruction of property charge earlier this month after the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro accused him of allegedly "forcefully and violently" ripping up parts of the pool floor. … A peeling section of blue coating is seen in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Washington. Mark Schiefelbein/AP Photo, FILE The filing from her office on Friday concluded: "Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt." Attorneys representing Hearn said in a statement Friday that the case against their client should never have been brought.

The $16 million renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has drawn renewed controversy after President Donald Trump slammed federal prosecutors' decision to dismiss charges against an Olympian accused of felony vandalism to the pool lining.Aug. 3, 2026, 7:08 p.m. ET The $16 million renovation of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has drawn renewed controversy after President Donald Trump slammed federal prosecutors' decision to dismiss charges against an Olympian accused of felony vandalism to the pool lining. The project to renovate and restore the pool and prevent it from leaking was plagued with troubles from its start in April, including rain, green algae blooms, weather delays and more.

Reflecting Pool liner was cut with a sharp knife or razor, National Park Service says … President Donald Trump said multiple arrests have been made and claimed authorities have “proof” to support the “vandalism” allegations.Reflecting Pool liner was cut with a sharp knife or razor, official says | AP News # Reflecting Pool liner was cut with a sharp knife or razor, National Park Service says President Donald Trump said multiple arrests have been made and claimed authorities have “proof” to support the “vandalism” allegations. The U.S. Capitol and the Washington Monument are reflected in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool Thursday, June 25, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Carolyn Kaster)

The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday moved to drop its charges against more people accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, shortly after dropping a similar case against an Olympic canoeist. … The case against Hearn was dropped Friday, with Pirro’s office casting blame on the contractor for overspraying and delamination. … President Trump and his administration have claimed that vandals damaged the Reflecting Pool after the site reopened to the public following months of renovations.by Ryan Mancini - 08/04/26 11:13 AM ET The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday moved to drop its charges against more people accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, shortly after dropping a similar case against an Olympic canoeist. Prosecutors led by U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro filed a nolle prosequi, meaning they are no longer looking to press charges against Cameron Theirs, Sophie Dennison-Gibby and Justin Carreno, according to court records. The DOJ accused all four people, including three-time Olympic canoeist David Hearn, of destruction of property with a value of less than $1,000. The case against Hearn was dropped Friday, with Pirro’s office casting blame on the contractor for overspraying and delamination. A grand jury in Washington indicted Hearn last month on charges of felony destruction, which could have brought a penalty of 10 years in prison. Defense lawyer Jamison Koehler told USA Today that his client, Dennison-Gibby, was relieved the charge was dropped, “but this was a horrible experience for her.” … She said the cases were under review and that some “of them will be misdemeanors and some of them could be less, like a violation.” President Trump and his administration have claimed that vandals damaged the Reflecting Pool after the site reopened to the public following months of renovations. Trump on Monday said Pirro “choked” in her decision to drop the charges. “Instead of going after the people that did it, the judge went after her and went after her department,” he said, appearing to refer to D.C. Superior Court Judge Todd Edelman. “And I guess she choked. I don’t know what the hell happened.”

President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice dropped charges against the three remaining defendants accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool — after the president blew up at U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for dismissing similar charges against Olympian David Hearn. … The DOJ dismissed the felony charges against Hearn, a 67-year-old former slalom canoeist, on Friday, saying that the bright green algae plaguing the pool — as well as the pool’s peeling paint— was “ the result of flawed installation by the contractor.” … President Donald Trump has repeatedly insisted that vandals have destroyed the monument. However, his Department of Justice said Friday that wasn’t the case (Reuters)Trump says Jeanine Pirro 'choked' in Reflecting Pool case President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice dropped charges against the three remaining defendants accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool — after the president blew up at U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro for dismissing similar charges against Olympian David Hearn. The DOJ dismissed the felony charges against Hearn, a 67-year-old former slalom canoeist, on Friday, saying that the bright green algae plaguing the pool — as well as the pool’s peeling paint— was “ the result of flawed installation by the contractor.” The move drew ire from Trump, who on Monday told reporters, “I was really disappointed in Jeanine Pirro. She folded like an umbrella.” … open image in gallery President Donald Trump has repeatedly insisted that vandals have destroyed the monument. However, his Department of Justice said Friday that wasn’t the case (Reuters) Attorneys for Hearn said Friday that the case “should never have been brought” and that the government owes Hearn an apology.

President Donald Trump continues to insist damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was the result of vandalism, despite a Department of Justice motion filed on July 31 that placed the blame squarely on a contractor’s “botched” installation of the pool coating “and not vandalism as initially represented” by the Department of Interior.Posted on August 3, 2026 President Donald Trump continues to insist damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was the result of vandalism, despite a Department of Justice motion filed on July 31 that placed the blame squarely on a contractor’s “botched” installation of the pool coating “and not vandalism as initially represented” by the Department of Interior. According to a motion from U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro to dismiss a felony destruction of property charge against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, it wasn’t until after Hearn was indicted that the Department of Interior provided prosecutors with “additional documents … indicating that damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in June 2026 was the result of flawed installation by the contractor … …

Newly obtained documents revealed that the ongoing issues at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool stem from contractor mistakes rather than vandalism. … While the records noted that vandals caused minor cuts in the caulking along the pool's edges, they explicitly did not link those cuts to the peeling liner or pool floor damage.- - The contractor for the Reflecting Pool blamed its own errors for ongoing issues, rather than vandalism. - The documents contradict the Trump administration's claims that damage to the Reflecting Pool was caused by vandalism. - Documents reveal the Reflecting Pool's lining peeled and tore due to human oversight during the installation process. WASHINGTON - Newly obtained documents revealed that the ongoing issues at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool stem from contractor mistakes rather than vandalism. The information contradicts previous claims by the Trump administration. What we know: … Specific errors cited in the documents include failing to apply sufficient primer in certain areas and using incompatible chemicals. While the records noted that vandals caused minor cuts in the caulking along the pool's edges, they explicitly did not link those cuts to the peeling liner or pool floor damage. Despite the Department of Justice dropping charges against individuals previously accused of damaging the pool, the administration has continued to cite vandalism as the primary cause.

The Justice Department moved Friday to dismiss a criminal case charging a former Olympian with deliberately damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, saying evidence prosecutors had recently received refuted the idea that vandals were to blame.By ERIC TUCKER WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department moved Friday to dismiss a criminal case charging a former Olympian with deliberately damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, saying evidence prosecutors had recently received refuted the idea that vandals were to blame. Government lawyers said in a 20-page court filing that additional documents provided by the Interior Department sinc

The lining of the Lincoln Memorial’s Reflecting Pool peeled away in at least seven places along seams that were created when the material was applied in large rectangular sections, indicating likely problems in how it was installed, according to a Washington Post analysis of visuals and interviews with experts. … Federal authorities have charged at least four people in connection with alleged vandalism, and three of them have pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor charges after allegedly peeling paint off the bottom of the pool and being caught in possession of pieces of liner.The Washington Post The lining of the Lincoln Memorial’s Reflecting Pool peeled away in at least seven places along seams that were created when the material was applied in large rectangular sections, indicating likely problems in how it was installed, according to a Washington Post analysis of visuals and interviews with experts. President Donald Trump has repeatedly said vandals are to blame for the damage that appeared just two weeks after the $14 million renovation was completed in early June. “The slashes were 300 yards long, and the floor of the pool was cut and then pulled upward, with great force, by these thugs,” he wrote in a post on his Truth Social platform on Monday. On Tuesday, photos emerged on social media that showed the pool had been drained in preparation for repairs. … On CNN’s “State of the Union” on July 5, Burgum said that the pool will be partially drained and that repairs will be completed by Atlantic Industrial Coatings. “We’ll use the same company, because they did a fantastic job,” he said, noting that the repairs could cost tens of thousands of dollars. Federal authorities have charged at least four people in connection with alleged vandalism, and three of them have pleaded not guilty to misdemeanor charges after allegedly peeling paint off the bottom of the pool and being caught in possession of pieces of liner. One person has been indicted, former Olympian David Hearn, and he has pleaded not guilty to a felony vandalism charge. At a news conference on July 2, U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said National Park Service employees witnessed Hearn “forcefully and violently” pulling at the liner with both hands and turning belligerent when told to stop. No one has been accused of making gashes, according to charging documents. ### Related

The Department of the Interior on Monday said five individuals were arrested in connection to reports of vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.DC Bureau: Parents Lobby Against Nitrous Oxide Misuse DC Bureau: Iran War Escalates as Fight Spreads Across Gulf #### Trump’s Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool work comes under scrutiny: 4 things to know NOW PLAYING #### Trump’s Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool work comes under scrutiny: 4 things to know The Department of the Interior on Monday said five individuals were arrested in connection to reports of vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. “Five individuals have been arrested for vandalism. Five additional individuals were issued federal citations,” a department spokesperson told The Hill. The spokesperson said a total of 14 police reports have been filed for vandalism, including the alleged crimes described in President Trump’s recent Truth Social posts. …

A liner along the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was cut with a sharp knife or razor this month, causing damage to the foam sealant installed as part of a $16 million rehabilitation project, a top official at the National Park Service says.The Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool are seen from the Washington Monument, Wednesday, June 24, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Rahmat Gul) WASHINGTON (AP) — A liner along the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool was cut with a sharp knife or razor this month, causing damage to the foam sealant installed as part of a $16 million rehabilitation project, a top official at the National Park Service says. The U.S. Park Police responded June 9 to a complaint by the park service, said Frank Lands, deputy director of operations for the park service. Lands made the statement in a court document filed late Wednesday as part of a lawsuit filed by a nonprofit organization to halt the Trump administration’s work on the project.

President Donald Trump said Sunday that work would begin "immediately" to repair the peeling lining at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, as an administration official confirmed that at least five people have been arrested on vandalism charges related to the pool.June 21, 2026, 8:10 PM President Donald Trump said Sunday that work would begin "immediately" to repair the peeling lining at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, as an administration official confirmed that at least five people have been arrested on vandalism charges related to the pool. "Work will begin immediately on fixing the seriously vandalized Reflecting Pool," Trump said in a post on Truth Social, claiming to have just inspected it himself.

Noticing a piece of the new “American flag blue” liner that was partially detached from the pool bottom, Hearn said he reached into the water to see what it felt like. Moments later, as the Bethesda man prepared to leave, U.S. Park Police officers arrested him on a misdemeanor charge of destruction of government property. … “I didn’t vandalize anything,” Hearn said. “I didn’t destroy or break or peel anything. By the time I realized what was going on, I was being put in handcuffs.” … A few hours after Miller’s video went public, the president in a late-night Truth Social post blamed “Radical Left Lunatics” for “Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool.”David Hearn had just finished a loop around Hains Point on Friday as part of a 52-mile bike ride when he swung by the Lincoln Memorial to see the refurbished Reflecting Pool for himself. Noticing a piece of the new “American flag blue” liner that was partially detached from the pool bottom, Hearn said he reached into the water to see what it felt like. Moments later, as the Bethesda man prepared to leave, U.S. Park Police officers arrested him on a misdemeanor charge of destruction of government property. He is scheduled to appear in D.C. Superior Court on July 9. Hearn’s arrest ignited a social media flurry as President Donald Trump and his allies blamed the pool overhaul’s problems on administration opponents. … In an interview Saturday, Hearn, 67, denied damaging government property and said he had never touched the hose, though he acknowledged that his bike tire may have. “I didn’t vandalize anything,” Hearn said. “I didn’t destroy or break or peel anything. By the time I realized what was going on, I was being put in handcuffs.” In a photo taken by David Hearn minutes before his arrest, a partially detached piece of the Reflecting Pool liner is visible. The top of Hearn's shoe can be seen at the bottom of the photo. (David Hearn) … The century-old Reflecting Pool has become controversial following the president’s decision to refurbish the concrete basin with a new liner. As government workers in recent days tried to combat an algae bloom in the reopened attraction, a new problem surfaced: chunks of the pool liner broke free. A few hours after Miller’s video went public, the president in a late-night Truth Social post blamed “Radical Left Lunatics” for “Vandalism at the beautiful Reflecting Pool.” Trump promised the algae problem would be quickly resolved and other repairs made early next week. The president also accused Jonathan Karl of ABC News, who has reported on the pool’s mounting problems, of “trying to rip the rubber off of the surface” of the pool.

The United States Park Police have arrested multiple people for allegedly vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, President Trump said Saturday, days after algae turned the water a fluorescent green hue and rips appeared in an "American Flag Blue" surface handpicked by the president.Add CBS News on Google The United States Park Police have arrested multiple people for allegedly vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, President Trump said Saturday, days after algae turned the water a fluorescent green hue and rips appeared in an "American Flag Blue" surface handpicked by the president. "The United States Park Police have arrested multiple individuals for vandalizing our Nations magnificent Reflecting Poll (sic)," Mr. Trump said in a Truth Social post Saturday. "Who would do such a thing? These are very serious crimes having to do with the destruction of National Monuments. Years in jail! Work will begin immediately on its repair." The U.S. …

Multiple people have been arrested this weekend after allegedly vandalizing the newly refurbished Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, prompting a strong response from President Donald Trump and an increase in security at the site.Former Olympian David Hearn denied wrongdoing after being arrested and charged with destruction of government property Friday at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C. (Credit/Emily Miller) Multiple people have been arrested this weekend after allegedly vandalizing the newly refurbished Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, prompting a strong response from President Donald Trump and an increase in security at the site. In a statement on Truth Social Saturday night, Trump announced "many additional people" have been arrested after suspects "took some form of knife or blade, and put a 250-foot-long gash into the beautiful facade of what took so much work, competence, and money to build and complete."

The Justice Department moved to dismiss a high-profile vandalism case Friday, citing new documents indicating that recent damage to the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool was likely the result of a "rushed and flawed installation process." … "Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt," the filing concluded.WASHINGTON — The Justice Department moved to dismiss a high-profile vandalism case Friday, citing new documents indicating that recent damage to the Lincoln Memorial's Reflecting Pool was likely the result of a "rushed and flawed installation process." President Donald Trump has repeatedly blamed vandals for problems with the pool following his $14 million renovation, which was fast-tracked ahead of a series of America 250 celebrations on the National Mall. … "Had DOI been forthcoming with the information clearly in its possession, the government would not have sought a grand jury indictment," said the filing from U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's office. "The rush to complete the project led to hasty and botched work that was not remediated before the project was finished and the fencing was removed." "Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt," the filing concluded. The DOI did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Neither did the White House.

The Justice Department has dropped a criminal case against four people accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after newly disclosed government records pointed instead to a rushed and flawed installation of the pool’s new protective coating.WASHINGTON — The Justice Department has dropped a criminal case against four people accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after newly disclosed government records pointed instead to a rushed and flawed installation of the pool’s new protective coating. The indictment against David Hearn was dismissed July 31 after prosecutors said the Department of the Interior provided documents that “significantly undermine” the evidence originally used to pursue the case.

Court documents claim that damage to the pool was the result of flawed installation and the rush to complete the project. … Six other people were also arrested on misdemeanor charges after President Donald Trump claimed vandals dumped fertilizer into the pool and cut the newly installed liner with a box cutter. … The U.S. Attorney’s Office for D.C. said it is moving to dismiss the indictment "because the recently-produced materials significantly undermine the evidentiary basis for the indictment initially supplied by the DOI and U.S. Park Police."#### The Brief - - Federal prosecutors are requesting to dismiss an indictment charging a former Olympian with vandalizing the Reflecting Pool. - Court documents claim that damage to the pool was the result of flawed installation and the rush to complete the project. - David Hearn pleaded not guilty to a felony charge of property destruction related to the case in early July. WASHINGTON - Federal prosecutors are requesting the dismissal of an indictment charging a former Olympian with vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. … A former Olympic canoe racer pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges that he deliberately damaged the recently renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a case his attorneys and other critics of the Trump administration have called politically motivated. Six other people were also arrested on misdemeanor charges after President Donald Trump claimed vandals dumped fertilizer into the pool and cut the newly installed liner with a box cutter. The allegations came after workers used chemicals to curb an algal bloom in the pool. Shortly after, chunks of the blue liner were seen floating on the surface of the water. … According to Friday’s motion, the Department of the Interior (DOI) provided documents — after Hearn’s indictment was returned — that indicated the damage to the Reflecting Pool was due to flawed installation by Atlantic Industrial Coatings and a rush to finish the job before America 250 and Independence Day events. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for D.C. said it is moving to dismiss the indictment "because the recently-produced materials significantly undermine the evidentiary basis for the indictment initially supplied by the DOI and U.S. Park Police." In the motion, the Attorney’s Office said it received "barebones police reports" from U.S. Park Police, despite the government requesting "everything," including all reports, witness statements and surveillance footage.

Government lawyers said in a 20-page court filing that additional documents provided by the Interior Department since the indictment of David Hearn show that the damage was the result of a botched installation by a contractor as well as “the rush to complete the project prior to events associated with the America 250 celebration in the weeks surrounding Independence Day 2026.” … “Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt,” said the filing from U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, which asked a judge to formally dismiss the case.WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department moved Friday to dismiss a criminal case charging a former Olympian with deliberately damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, saying evidence prosecutors had recently received refuted the idea that vandals were to blame. Government lawyers said in a 20-page court filing that additional documents provided by the Interior Department since the indictment of David Hearn show that the damage was the result of a botched installation by a contractor as well as “the rush to complete the project prior to events associated with the America 250 celebration in the weeks surrounding Independence Day 2026.” In addition, a recent visual inspection revealed damage throughout the pool, including in the middle — where prosecutors say a vandal would not likely have attempted to peel the lining. “Given all of this newly discovered information, it is difficult to attribute the widespread damage to the Reflecting Pool to vandalism, let alone to establish that fact beyond a reasonable doubt,” said the filing from U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro, which asked a judge to formally dismiss the case. Hearn’s lawyers said in a statement that the case against him should never have been brought.

U.S. Park Police are seeking assistance in identifying a person wanted in connection to a “destruction of government property” investigation related to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. … The Interior Department and the U.S. Park Police, though a spokesperson earlier this week, confirmed there had been several arrests and federal citations for alleged vandalism.National Park Service employees and contractors use vacuums to remove green algae from the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on June 18, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images) (WASHINGTON) — U.S. Park Police are seeking assistance in identifying a person wanted in connection to a “destruction of government property” investigation related to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Park Police posted on social media Wednesday a video of the alleged incident that shows a person reaching into the Reflecting Pool and appearing to pull something from the water. The video is somewhat blurry and shot from a distance. ABC News has reached out to National Park Service and Park Police about the source of the video. … “In fact, I looked at it just a little while ago, it looks perfect already,” the president continued. “But we’re fixing it. The vandals got to it, they’ve largely been caught and are being prosecuted. We can’t let that happen to our country.” The Interior Department and the U.S. Park Police, though a spokesperson earlier this week, confirmed there had been several arrests and federal citations for alleged vandalism. Trump said on Tuesday that six people had been arrested. Trump also said earlier this week that the Reflecting Pool will be drained again for “permanent repair” around the Fourth of July.

Federal prosecutors have moved to dismiss the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool vandalism case against former Olympian David Hearn, saying instead that damage to the pool was "the result of botched installation and not vandalism."Updated August 1, 2026 at 3:17 PM CDT Federal prosecutors have moved to dismiss the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool vandalism case against former Olympian David Hearn, saying instead that damage to the pool was "the result of botched installation and not vandalism." Earlier this month, Hearn, 67, pleaded not guilty to a single count of destruction of property causing more than $1,000 in damage to the pool. Hearn has repeatedly said that he simply touched the water in the pool out of curiosity last month. But the government alleged he had ripped a piece of sealant at the bottom of the reflecting pool after it had undergone a $14 million renovation.

At least five people have been arrested in connection with the alleged vandalism of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, an administration official said Monday, as President Donald Trump threatened long prison terms for offenders. … The five arrests and citations to five additional individuals come in the wake of Trump saying Saturday, with no evidence so far, that vandals at the Reflecting Pool cut a 250-foot-long “gash into the beautiful facade of what took so much work, competence, and money to build and complete.”By Gabe Gutierrez, Helen Graham, David K. Li and Lauren Zola At least five people have been arrested in connection with the alleged vandalism of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, an administration official said Monday, as President Donald Trump threatened long prison terms for offenders. The five arrests and citations to five additional individuals come in the wake of Trump saying Saturday, with no evidence so far, that vandals at the Reflecting Pool cut a 250-foot-long “gash into the beautiful facade of what took so much work, competence, and money to build and complete.” Among those arrested was former U.S. Olympic canoeist David “Davey” Hearn, who previously told NBC News he was detained for five hours Friday after touching a piece of detached coating at the Reflecting Pool.

The president on Saturday night, 16 days after the government began refilling the pool after the renovation, said it would likely need to be drained again and blamed “disgraceful Vandalism” for damage, including accusations that saboteurs poured corrosive chemicals into the pool and “took some form of knife or blade, and put a 250 foot long gash into the beautiful facade.” … The Post could not immediately verify Trump’s allegations, and reporters at the pool Sunday could not spot a gash fitting that description.… But problems quickly surfaced as the Reflecting Pool within days experienced one of the biggest recorded algae blooms in years. The Interior Department said last week that it was treating the pool with hydrogen peroxide and “high-tech nanobubble ozone technology” to effectively cut off the algae’s food supply. Soon after, the peeling paint drew national attention in the wake of the renovation that Trump had previously said would result in clean water and “could last for 100 years.” The president on Saturday night, 16 days after the government began refilling the pool after the renovation, said it would likely need to be drained again and blamed “disgraceful Vandalism” for damage, including accusations that saboteurs poured corrosive chemicals into the pool and “took some form of knife or blade, and put a 250 foot long gash into the beautiful facade.” The official said 14 police reports had been filed for vandalism, including for a crime relating to a gash of that size. The Post could not immediately verify Trump’s allegations, and reporters at the pool Sunday could not spot a gash fitting that description. At least eight officers patrolling the site, when asked about Trump’s allegation, could not point it out. Advertising Skip Ad Sara Bronin, a law professor at George Washington University who specializes in historic preservation and property law, said that for those charged, the government would have to prove in court that the person caused or intended to cause damage. “One key question is, did they willfully damage a property?” Bronin said. …

Trump alleges vandalism at Reflecting Pool project, says 6 arrested | AP News … Troubled Reflecting Pool faces fresh scrutiny over vandalism claims and duck deathsTrump alleges vandalism at Reflecting Pool project, says 6 arrested | AP News # Troubled Reflecting Pool faces fresh scrutiny over vandalism claims and duck deaths ## Troubled Reflecting Pool faces fresh scrutiny over vandalism claims and duck deaths

President Donald Trump has repeatedly blamed vandals for damaging the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, and a new court filing now backs up part of that claim by detailing knife damage investigators say they found shortly after the project was completed. … The filing says part of the pool’s liner was cut with a sharp knife or razor and that dozens of fence post caps had been thrown into the water.## Full story President Donald Trump has repeatedly blamed vandals for damaging the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, and a new court filing now backs up part of that claim by detailing knife damage investigators say they found shortly after the project was completed. The filing says part of the pool’s liner was cut with a sharp knife or razor and that dozens of fence post caps had been thrown into the water. It does not identify who caused the damage, nor does it conclude that vandalism was responsible for every problem that has surfaced since the Reflecting Pool reopened. ### What investigators documented

The U.S. Justice Department later admitted [13] [14] [15] in a legal filing that the 2026 renovation had been "hasty and botched," and the problems were not caused by vandalism. [13]… potable water. [12] In 2026, the pool was resurfaced at the order of U.S. president Donald Trump with a blue polyurea coating, and a nanobubbler filtration system was added. [2] The renovation engendered public intrigue after only a matter of days, as the coating began to peel and the Reflecting Pool sustained an algal bloom. Trump's claims that the pool was vandalized were never substantiated. The U.S. Justice Department later admitted [13] [14] [15] in a legal filing that the 2026 renovation had been "hasty and botched," and the problems were not caused by vandalism. [13] ## Description

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is set to undergo more repairs, just days ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. That’s according to Trump, who has repeatedly claimed without evidence that vandals caused the algae blooms and peeling paint that have plagued the pool since its renovation.Leila Jackson Leila Jackson The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool is set to undergo more repairs, just days ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. That’s according to Trump, who has repeatedly claimed without evidence that vandals caused the algae blooms and peeling paint that have plagued the pool since its renovation. Stephanie Sy reports. ## Listen to this Segment

Federal prosecutors on Friday asked a judge to dismiss an indictment charging former U.S. Olympic canoeist David Hearn with ripping up the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, citing new information that the damage was caused by a “botched installation” by a contractor, not vandalism.by Jacob Rosen Joe Walsh July 31, 2026 Reading Time: 4 mins read Federal prosecutors on Friday asked a judge to dismiss an indictment charging former U.S. Olympic canoeist David Hearn with ripping up the bottom of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, citing new information that the damage was caused by a “botched installation” by a contractor, not vandalism. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in D.C. had charged Hearn with felony destruction of government property, accusing him of causing more than $1,000 in damage to the sealant that was recently installed at the bottom of the Reflecting Pool. The project to renovate the pool was championed by President Trump.

Five people are said to have been arrested, accused of vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, according to a Trump administration official.and last updated Five people are said to have been arrested, accused of vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, according to a Trump administration official. The pool, which recently underwent $15 million in renovations, has drawn criticism after algae started to grow in the water. The new blue coating at the bottom of the pool also appeared to begin peeling in some areas.

A flurry of arrests and presidential statements has framed the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool problems as the result of “vandalism,” but the publicly available reporting shows arrests were made and citations issued while concrete, independently verifiable evidence that deliberate sabotage caused the peeling sealant, algae blooms and plumbing troubles has not been released … Conclusion: available reporting confirms law‑enforcement action and public claims of vandalism, but does not provide the underlying forensic evidence linking deliberate sabotage to the pool’s peeling lining and algae problemsExecutive summary A flurry of arrests and presidential statements has framed the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool problems as the result of “vandalism,” but the publicly available reporting shows arrests were made and citations issued while concrete, independently verifiable evidence that deliberate sabotage caused the peeling sealant, algae blooms and plumbing troubles has not been released; reporting instead documents prior leaks, warranty-covered contractor work and at least one arrest for touching detached liner rather than clear proof of deliberate damage [1] [2] [3]. AccurateInaccurate … Coverage notes administration rhetoric promising to release photos and pursue prosecutions, but journalists highlight the absence of the kind of documentary proof—cut edges analyzed for tool marks, chemical analysis, chain-of-custody evidence—necessary to move from allegation to demonstrated cause [2] [5]. Conclusion: available reporting confirms law‑enforcement action and public claims of vandalism, but does not provide the underlying forensic evidence linking deliberate sabotage to the pool’s peeling lining and algae problems; alternative, non‑criminal explanations tied to contractor performance, environmental conditions and preexisting infrastructure issues remain plausible and are supported in the coverage, while some arrests appear to have been for minor contact with detached material rather than observed destructive acts [1] [11] [3] [7]. AccurateInaccurateReport