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U.S. Attorney Moves to Dismiss Canoeist's Reflecting Pool Indictment

8/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro moved to dismiss the indictment against canoeist David Hearn for damage to Reflecting Pool.
Defense lawyers said Justice Department knew Reflecting Pool liner was failing because a botched contractor installation.
Interior Department evidence linked the damage to a $14.7 million Coatings project finished before America 250 celebrations around July 4.
Hearn’s attorneys filed a motion seeking dismissal with prejudice, while President Donald Trump claimed vandalism and defended the contractors.

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Story summary

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro moved to dismiss the indictment against canoeist David Hearn for damage to Reflecting Pool.
Defense lawyers said Justice Department knew Reflecting Pool liner was failing because a botched contractor installation.
Interior Department evidence linked the damage to a $14.7 million Coatings project finished before America 250 celebrations around July 4.
Hearn’s attorneys filed a motion seeking dismissal with prejudice, while President Donald Trump claimed vandalism and defended the contractors.