Former Olympian Pleads Not Guilty Over Reflecting Pool Vandalism

Sun Sep 06 2026 10:47:19 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

David Hearn denies charges of damaging Washington’s iconic pool amid a broader debate over renovation costs.

Ex–Olympic canoeist David Hearn appeared in Washington courts today to plead not guilty to felony vandalism charges linked to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. Accusations allege he ripped a lining that had just been resealed in a $13m makeover, causing roughly $1,000 in damage. Hearn argues the coating had already delaminated, and his lawyers claim the case is a political move to deflect criticism from the Trump administration’s renovation efforts. The case highlights ongoing problems with algae, peeling sealants and fireworks debris, prompting a second draining of the pool. The next hearing is set for 5 August, as the legal battle unfolds against a backdrop of public scrutiny of capital beautification projects.

Former Olympian Pleads Not Guilty Over Reflecting Pool Vandalism

David Hearn — a three‑time Olympic canoeist who was the target of an indictment over alleged damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool – appeared in a Washington District Court today to plead not guilty to a felony charge that he ripped a sealing tape at the water’s bottom, causing about $1,000 in damage.

The prosecution’s case hinges on the claim that on 19 June Hearn deliberately tore a piece of the recently installed blue sealant, a coating that had cost an estimated $13 million and was part of the Trump administration’s “beautification” push. Hearn, 67, maintains that he merely touched a strip that had already “delaminated” and that no deliberate tearing or removal took place. He insisted that “to touch the Reflecting Pool is not a crime” in the United States.

Lawyer Norm Eisen, speaking outside the courthouse, warned that an indictment against an Olympian could set a precedent threatening the rights of any citizen to contact or touch public water. “If Mr Hearn can be charged for touching the pool, every American is at risk,” he said.

In a broader context, the Reflecting Pool’s makeover has been beset by setbacks: algae blooms, peeling sealant, and debris from fireworks set off for the 4 July celebrations. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has announced a second draining of the pool to clean and repair the lining, saying, “Drain the water. Clean up the fireworks stuff. Repair the vandalism that was done. Fill it back up again.” Five people were already arrested in connection with vandalism, and five others received federal citations.

Hearn’s defense argues that the felony charge is a political strategy aimed at shifting blame for the pool’s persistent issues away from the Trump team. The case is now on the docket for a hearing on 5 August, and a decision may influence how future vandalism claims against public monuments are prosecuted.