Ex-Olympic athlete pleads not guilty to damaging Trump-renovated pool

An American former Olympic athlete, David Hearn, has pleaded not guilty to charges of damaging a reflecting pool near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. The pool underwent renovations during the Trump administration, and Hearn is accused of tearing away its lining.

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David Hearn «is innocent, and we are going to fight this case trusting the justice system to make the right decision».

Hearn, who represented the U.S. in canoeing at the 1992, 1996, and 2000 Olympic Games, faces charges of defacing public property, which carries a potential ten-year prison sentence. He was arrested on June 19. His lawyer, Norman Eisen, stated Hearn is innocent and that they trust the justice system. Eisen also suggested the government is using Hearn as a scapegoat to distract from its own failures with the pool's renovation.

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I reached out to grab the end of this piece that was hanging, this piece that was already peeling. It was still attached to the bottom. I didn't remove anything.

President Donald Trump had previously blamed "far-left fanatics" and "vandalism" for a series of problems plaguing the renovated pool, including algae infestations and peeling paint, and had threatened harsh penalties for those responsible. Hearn maintains he was merely touching already peeling material that was loose from the bottom of the pool, not removing it.

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This case should never have been brought to justice.

Supporters gathered outside the courthouse to show solidarity with Hearn, holding signs that read "Justice for Davey." His lawyer argued that if Hearn can be prosecuted for touching the pool, then no American is safe, urging public concern over the proceedings. Several other individuals arrested for alleged damage to the pool may face lesser charges or fines.

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If Mr. Hearn can be prosecuted for touching the pool, then no American is safe and all should be concerned about these proceedings.