Former US Olympian David Hearn Denies Washington Reflecting Pool Vandalism Charge
David "Davey" Hearn, a 67-year-old former US Olympian, denies allegations of vandalising the Washington Reflecting Pool, facing a misdemeanour charge of destruction of government property. Hearn was arrested on Friday at the pool's edge, stating he merely touched a 'delaminated' strip of rubbery material.
The incident follows a multi-million dollar resealing and painting project for the historic Reflecting Pool, which stretches 619m between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. Former President Donald Trump had championed the pool's makeover, selecting the 'American Flag Blue' paint colour himself, as part of efforts to 'beautify' the US capital.
Despite an estimated $13 million refurbishment, the pool continues to suffer from peeling paint and algae growth. Hearn, a champion canoeist who competed in three Olympics, insists he did not damage the structure. "The condition of any part of the reflecting pool didn't change," he stated, calling his arrest an "arbitrary, capricious prosecution."
Former President Trump, in a post on Truth Social, confirmed arrests for "vandalizing our Nations magnificent Reflecting Pool," claiming, without evidence, that "corrosive and destructive chemicals" had been poured into the water and that "some form of knife or blade" damaged the lawn. He announced immediate repair work would commence, likely requiring the pool to be drained.
Hearn, who designs waterproof products, explained his curiosity regarding the materials used for the pool's paint. He was detained for approximately five hours without being allowed a phone call, suggesting an attempt to "make an example" of him.
