Story perspectives

Olympian David Hearn Charged Felony Over $16M Pool Damage

7/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro charged Olympian David Hearn, 67, with one felony for tearing two square feet of the pool liner.
Olympian David Hearn pleaded not guilty and faces up to 10 years in prison.
U.S. District Judge Todd E. Edelman denied the motion to dismiss.
The $16 million renovation left the water green, while President Donald Trump claimed vandals created a large gash that investigators have not found.

History

Historical Context

The 1996 Atlanta Centennial Olympics cost about $1.7 billion, with private funds covering most expenses and roughly $500 million spent on public infrastructure. Budget overruns then drew criticism that later bids, like Rio 2016, amplified. Now U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s felony charge against former Olympian David Hearn for a $16 million pool renovation revives fears that inadequate oversight can repeat the financial and legal fallout of past Games.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro charged Olympian David Hearn, 67, with one felony for tearing two square feet of the pool liner.
Olympian David Hearn pleaded not guilty and faces up to 10 years in prison.
U.S. District Judge Todd E. Edelman denied the motion to dismiss.
The $16 million renovation left the water green, while President Donald Trump claimed vandals created a large gash that investigators have not found.

1 / 2