Former Olympian David Hearn Denies Vandalism Charges at Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
David Hearn's Arrest and Charges
David Hearn, a 67-year-old former Olympic canoe racer, was apprehended by US Park Police and National Guard personnel at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, where he is accused of vandalism. Hearn asserts that he intends to contest the allegations, claiming he did nothing wrong and was unfairly targeted. The Reflecting Pool is currently undergoing a significant $14 million renovation.
Hearn maintains that he approached the water to inspect what he thought was deteriorating material from the pool's lining and briefly reached in for a closer look. He insists that his actions were merely observational and not destructive. “I feel like I was targeted and I’m feeling singled out—definitely,” he stated.
Concerns have arisen for Hearn as reports indicate that several individuals have been arrested or cited for alleged damage to the site. He fears being unjustly portrayed as a public example, especially since his name has been publicly linked to the incident.
While authorities have not disclosed all details regarding the allegations, they have indicated that the Reflecting Pool sustained intentional damage, including cuts to its liner. The investigation into the reported damage is ongoing.
Hearn's attorney, Norm Eisen, has stated that his client plans to fight the charges in court, asserting his innocence. Eisen criticized the treatment of Hearn's actions as criminal, suggesting it distracts from the real issues regarding the management of the renovation project.
Hearn is set to appear in D.C. Superior Court on July 9. If found guilty of the misdemeanor charge, he could face penalties ranging from fines to a maximum of one year in jail, depending on the severity of the alleged damage.
In a social media statement, former President Donald Trump mentioned that multiple arrests had been made concerning the Reflecting Pool damage, labeling the incident as deliberate vandalism amid the ongoing restoration efforts. Hearn, however, continues to assert his innocence, stating, “I didn’t vandalize anything. I didn’t destroy or break or peel anything. By the time I realized what was going on, I was being put in handcuffs.”