DOJ stands by Pirro after Lincoln pool vandalism case collapses
What's new: Prosecutors dropped the case after citing signs the damage may have come from a flawed $14 million renovation, not vandalism.
Attorney General Todd Blanche backed interim U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro after federal prosecutors moved July 31 to dismiss a vandalism case tied to the newly renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington. The case accused Olympic canoeist David Hearn of damaging the site after cracks, algae growth and peeling sealant were found. Prosecutors sought dismissal after evidence pointed to possible construction defects in the $14 million renovation rather than criminal damage. Blanche said a witness claimed to have seen Hearn vandalizing the pool, but he added that account did not provide enough proof to sustain the case. Hearn has denied wrongdoing.