Trump Administration Admits 'Botched' Repairs Led to Reflecting Pool Damage, Drops Charges

Prosecutors in Washington D.C. have dropped vandalism charges against David Hearn, a former Olympian who had been accused of damaging the Reflecting Pool.

New court documents reveal that the damage is now believed to be the result of a “rushed and botched installation” by contractors, rather than deliberate vandalism. This admission comes after President Donald Trump had previously blamed the damage on “sick, deranged” vandals.

Hearn, a champion canoeist, had faced up to 10 years in prison. His legal team accused the Trump administration of an “abuse of government power” and stated that the government “owes Mr Hearn an apology.”

The court filing indicates that the Department of Interior (DOI) oversaw a hurried painting and resealing project of the Reflecting Pool, intended to beautify the area before the nation’s 250th independence anniversary. However, the project, which cost an estimated $16 million, reportedly suffered from algae issues and peeling sealant shortly after completion.

Prosecutors were not fully aware of the installation issues until after Hearn’s arrest. The DOI is criticized in the filing for not providing complete information initially, which led to the government pursuing an indictment based on what is now admitted to be flawed work.

Hearn maintained his innocence, stating he “didn’t destroy, rip, tear, peel, or remove any part” of the pool’s paint. It remains unclear if charges against other individuals also accused of vandalism in relation to the Reflecting Pool have been dropped.

The Reflecting Pool has since been drained for a second time in three months. The contractor responsible for the repairs has been contacted for comment.

Source: Nile Post