Story perspectives

Justice Department Drops Hearn Reflecting Pool Charge After Overspray Weakens Case

8/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

Justice Department dropped the charge against David Hearn for alleged Reflecting Pool damage on July 31, 2026 after Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Spence said overspray documents weakened the case.
U.S. President Donald Trump accused people of “destroying” the pool after it reopened and slammed Pirro for dropping the case.
Hearn’s lawyers seek a block on prosecution while, on August 21, 2026, Justice Department asked a judge to dismiss the case without prejudice, allowing refile.

1 of 1

Story summary

Justice Department dropped the charge against David Hearn for alleged Reflecting Pool damage on July 31, 2026 after Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Spence said overspray documents weakened the case.
U.S. President Donald Trump accused people of “destroying” the pool after it reopened and slammed Pirro for dropping the case.
Hearn’s lawyers seek a block on prosecution while, on August 21, 2026, Justice Department asked a judge to dismiss the case without prejudice, allowing refile.