In the United States, former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, aged 67, entered a not guilty plea in D.C. Superior Court regarding charges of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The incident occurred on June 19, 2026, when Hearn allegedly touched a loose piece of the pool's newly applied sealant during a bike ride. He was subsequently indicted on July 2, 2026, for felony destruction of property, with the prosecution claiming he caused over $1,000 in damages. Hearn's defense argues that the charges are unfounded and politically motivated, asserting that he merely examined the pool's condition as a concerned citizen.
The Reflecting Pool had recently undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation under the Trump administration, which has faced criticism due to ongoing issues such as algae blooms and peeling coatings. Following the renovation, the pool was drained multiple times for repairs, and allegations of vandalism emerged, with Trump suggesting that the damage was caused by individuals dumping fertilizer and slashing the coating. Hearn's attorneys contend that the prosecution is an attempt to deflect blame for the renovation's failures.
During the court proceedings, Hearn's attorney, Mary Dohrmann, emphasized the weakness of the government's evidence and invoked Hearn's right to a speedy trial. However, the judge indicated that a trial could not be scheduled until February 2027 due to the court's calendar. Hearn's next hearing is set for August 5, 2026. Outside the courthouse, a group of supporters rallied for Hearn, carrying signs and chanting in his favor.
The case has drawn significant media attention, with Hearn's arrest being captured on video and shared widely. His defense team argues that the charges against him are part of a broader narrative that seeks to hold individuals accountable for the administration's shortcomings in managing the Reflecting Pool's renovation. Hearn maintains that he did not engage in any vandalism and that his actions were mischaracterized by authorities.
