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DOJ Seeks Dismissal of Reflecting Pool Case Against Hearn

8/1/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Justice Department filed a motion on July 31, 2026 to dismiss the case against David Hearn, citing damage to the Reflecting Pool from a contractor installation.
Hearn pleaded not guilty to a felony property-destruction count, with trial set for September 28.
He said Police detained him for five hours after stopping by the pool on June 19, while his lawyers claim the prosecution is politically motivated by President Donald Trump.

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Story summary

The U.S. Justice Department filed a motion on July 31, 2026 to dismiss the case against David Hearn, citing damage to the Reflecting Pool from a contractor installation.
Hearn pleaded not guilty to a felony property-destruction count, with trial set for September 28.
He said Police detained him for five hours after stopping by the pool on June 19, while his lawyers claim the prosecution is politically motivated by President Donald Trump.