Witness says Lincoln Memorial pool was damaged before alleged vandalism
Summary
A former Olympic canoeist, David “Davey” Hearn, is accused of damaging the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool, but a witness testified that the pool was already damaged before Hearn’s actions. Hearn’s lawyers argue that the damage existed beforehand and question whether the grand jury was properly informed when charging him with felony property destruction.Key Facts
- David “Davey” Hearn is charged with a felony count of property destruction for allegedly vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool.
- Hearn pleaded not guilty and is scheduled for trial on September 28 in Washington DC superior court.
- A National Park Service official stated the pool was leaking over one million gallons per week and had a rip before Hearn touched it.
- The witness could not confirm any new damage caused by Hearn’s actions and said repairs would have been needed anyway.
- Hearn briefly touched the pool liner during a bike ride but complied when told to let go.
- The reflecting pool had undergone a $16 million renovation ordered by President Trump, which faced problems like leaks and algae.
- Trump blamed vandals for the renovation's failures and charged three people, including Hearn, with misdemeanor offenses related to tampering with the pool liner.
- Hearn's lawyers claim there were irregularities in the grand jury process and have requested full access to grand jury records to challenge the indictment.
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