Another individual faces arrest concerning the alleged vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, as announced by President Donald Trump on Tuesday. Trump, through a post on Truth Social, stated that six people have been detained and seven cited regarding damages to what he calls the country’s now beautiful Reflecting Pool. While Trump has claimed vandalism, he has not yet provided evidence. Images depict the blue sealant peeling away, with chunks floating on the surface, and algae giving the water a green tint.
On Tuesday, during a media interaction, Trump mentioned that the Interior Department would release photos of the alleged vandalism. As observed on Monday, the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool shows signs of peeling paint and visible algae.
Aaron Schwartz / Reuters
Previously, Trump accused vandals of slicing a 250-foot gash into the historic site. His Tuesday post described further damage being caused by a “very sharp knife or razors,” adding multiple slashes over a span of 350 feet. Trump expressed that this was intentional and criminal, with significant effort needed, possibly done at night. He also noted that a small area at the bottom of the pool was damaged and lifted, creating jagged edges.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Trump described the cuts as “very violent” and alleged illegal chemical placement in the pool, suggesting a potential 10-year prison sentence for those responsible for such acts. No responses have been forthcoming from the U.S. Park Police, National Park Service, or Interior Department to NBC News’ inquiries.
David “Davey” Hearn, a U.S. Olympic canoeist, was mentioned in Trump’s vandalism claims. He shared that he was arrested and detained for five hours on Friday after touching some detached coating. Hearn visited the site following a bike ride to satisfy curiosity about the algae and coating issues. He described the coating as stiff yet flexible and rubbery, denying removing or damaging any of it. He noted the condition of the pool remained unchanged after he left.
Hearn was arrested by the National Guard, without clear indication of any violated federal law, and charges remain uncertain.
Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor, highlighted that federal cases generally involve felonies over minor offenses, such as misdemeanors. He speculated that the political environment might influence handling for the six arrested individuals, describing the situation as atypical. Rahmani indicated in a phone interview that the Justice Department appeared to be following the president’s directives.
Typically, those accused of federal misdemeanors receive a citation and court appearance notice. Misdemeanor punishments can involve up to six months to one year in jail, or occasionally probation with fines. Rahmani suggested Trump’s 10-year sentence threat could relate to arrested parties.
To rectify the pool’s issues, according to Trump, water drainage might occur around the Fourth of July, coinciding with the nation’s 250th independence anniversary. Grass areas surrounding the pool also face replacement efforts, as shared by Trump, who remains assured of the pool’s aesthetic post-repair. Prior to recent renovations, the president characterized the pool as neglected by past presidents, emphasizing issues with algae over the years. The rehabilitation, costing over $14 million, included new liner installation and addition of coating designated “American flag blue” by Trump.