Trump cites witness account in reflecting pool vandalism case

President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism regarding the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool vandalism case, referencing a National Park Service employee's account that former Olympian David Hearn allegedly damaged the pool's coating. Trump shared details from court documents indicating that Hearn was observed taking photos of the pool before allegedly kneeling and tugging at the coating. The employee, referred to as W-1, reported that Hearn ignored warnings and continued his actions until National Guard soldiers arrived. Trump emphasized this account as he continued to contest the dismissal of felony charges against Hearn earlier this month. Hearn had been indicted on July 2 for felony destruction of property, with allegations that he caused damage exceeding $1,000. However, prosecutors later sought to dismiss the case, citing new evidence that suggested some damage was due to flawed installation by contractors. Trump has publicly disagreed with U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's decision to drop the charges, asserting that the witness account supports his claims of deliberate damage.