Pirro Steamrolls Lame Reporters Who Tried to Minimize Vandalism at the National Mall Reflecting Pool

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro Defends Felony Indictment in Reflecting Pool Damage Case

U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro held a press conference on July 2, 2026, to discuss the indictment of David Hearn, a three-time U.S. Olympic canoeist from Bethesda, Maryland. Hearn, age 67, faces a felony destruction of property charge related to alleged damage to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on the National Mall.

The charge stems from an incident last month in which Hearn was accused of ripping apart newly installed blue sealant at the pool. Prosecutors stated the damage exceeded $1,000. Pirro told reporters that an expert witness would be used at trial to establish the monetary threshold. When asked how the damage amount would be proven, she replied, “With an expert. Come to the trial.”

A reporter inquired whether Hearn used tools or acted with bare hands. Pirro responded that authorities currently believe he used both hands. The same reporter asked if the pool had sustained prior damage. Pirro stated, “Oh, he damaged it!” and later, “He damaged the pool!” When the reporter referenced videos, Pirro said, “Well, good, I’m glad you got that evidence. Come on to the grand jury, you can testify. NEXT!”

The Reflecting Pool project involved resealing the bottom to address leaks. Some reports have described the work as part of broader efforts to maintain federal property in Washington, D.C. A separate project at Columbus Circle near Union Station also drew attention after graffiti was removed and the fountain was restored to operation. Critics of the Reflecting Pool work have cited a total cost of approximately $14 million and noted an algae bloom that turned portions of the water green after the sealant installation.

Pirro addressed questions linking the case to the January 6, 2021, Capitol events. When a reporter raised the comparison, she replied, “Already this is a PROBLEM… Are you REALLY talking about January 6th?” After the reporter confirmed the question, Pirro stated, “I’M NOT! Okay, who’s next? NOT YOU!”

The indictment marks one of several cases involving alleged damage to federal property on the National Mall. Court records show Hearn was charged under statutes covering destruction of government property valued above the felony threshold. No independent engineering assessment of the exact damage cost has been released publicly as of the press conference date.

The algae bloom occurred after the new sealant was applied, according to observers and media accounts. Project contractors have not issued a public statement on whether the bloom resulted from the sealant material, water chemistry, or other environmental factors. The pool remains open to the public while repairs continue.

Pirro’s office has not released additional details on the investigation beyond the statements made at the briefing. Hearn’s attorney has not commented publicly on the charges. The case is scheduled for further proceedings in D.C. Superior Court.

Additional coverage of the Reflecting Pool work has included discussion of maintenance history. The pool has required periodic repairs due to leaks and weathering since its construction. Federal records indicate multiple contracts for upkeep over the past decade, though specific prior cost figures were not addressed at the July 2 briefing.

The press conference concluded after Pirro declined further questions on unrelated topics.