Attorney General Todd Blanche defended U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's decision to drop the vandalism charges against former Olympian David Hearn. During an interview on NBC's Meet the Press, Blanche acknowledged President Donald Trump's frustrations with the case outcome but emphasized support for Pirro. He stated that judging her based on a single case is not fair.
On July 31, Pirro's office dismissed the indictment against Hearn after evidence indicated that damage to the Reflecting Pool was due to a renovation error rather than intentional vandalism. Trump had expressed disagreement with this decision and urged Pirro to revive the case, which she has not done. Despite speculation about Pirro's job security following Trump's comments, she remains in her position.
Blanche mentioned that while there was potential vandalism, the evidence may not have been sufficient to prove Hearn's guilt. He also noted that vandalism on the National Mall is a recurring issue, citing a recent incident at the World War II Memorial where felony charges were filed against a suspect for defacing the memorial.