Home / Crime and Justice / Ex-US Olympian Faces Felony Charges Over Pool Damage
Ex-US Olympian Faces Felony Charges Over Pool Damage
3 Jul
Summary
- Former Olympian David Hearn charged with vandalizing Lincoln Memorial pool.
- Alleged damage to sealant cost $1,000 during recent renovations.
- Hearn faces felony destruction of property charges from federal prosecutors.
A former US Olympian is facing serious legal repercussions for allegedly vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. David Hearn, 67, a three-time Olympic canoeist, has been charged with felony destruction of property by federal prosecutors.
The incident occurred on June 19th, 2026, involving the recently restored reflecting pool at the National Mall. Prosecutors state that Hearn intentionally ripped a piece of newly applied sealant from the pool's bottom, causing approximately $1,000 in damage.
Hearn was apprehended near the pool's edge following the alleged act. He had previously stated his innocence, claiming he was merely resting after a long bike ride when detained. The National Park Service had recently completed restoration work on the attraction.
