President Trump stated that the United States Park Police have arrested several people in relation to what he called sabotage of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington D.C. The pool had recently undergone an expensive renovation. Trump used Truth Social to express his concerns and mentioned that the alleged vandalism could lead to severe legal consequences. These are serious crimes involving the destruction of National Monuments. Years in jail! Work will begin immediately on its repair, he declared.

In a follow-up message, Trump provided additional details regarding the damages but offered no evidence supporting his claims. As of now, no official confirmation of arrests has come from the Park Police or any law enforcement agency.

Maryland resident and former Olympian David Hearn was arrested on Friday. Charged with destroying government property, Hearn claimed he simply touched a blue piece already dislodged in the pool.

Trump announced the necessity to drain the pool for repairs, describing the vandalism as a disrespect to American history. Meeting with contractors, we determined much of the water must be released to proceed with repairs, he announced.

Trump described physical damage to the pool’s renovated lining. He claimed that a 250-foot gash was cut into the pool’s surface, accompanying alleged chemical damage. Although he related these actions to the pool turning green, there is no evidence to support this connection.

Experts from NPR explained that the discoloration stemmed from an algal bloom, due to natural causes. The pool had turned green shortly after being refilled. This phenomenon is often connected to shallow, sunlit waters.

In April, the White House announced plans to paint the pool American flag blue in anticipation of the 250th Independence Day anniversary on July 4. Trump shared a fabricated image showing him in swimwear with administrative officials. A lawsuit against the renovation claimed historic preservation reviews were disregarded, as costs ballooned from $2 million to over $14 million. A Virginia contractor received the no-bid contract while an Ohio company was paid for algae treatment technology.

Questions remain about whether any vandalism affected the pool’s discoloration or structures. As of yet, there is no substantiated evidence.