Arrest and Alleged Vandalism at Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

President Donald Trump announced the arrest of another individual in connection with alleged vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that six people have been taken into custody and seven have been issued citations linked to damage at the site.

The president has made several claims of vandalism but has not provided supporting evidence. Photos reveal peeling blue sealant and algae growth, which has turned the water green. Trump indicated the Interior Department might release images of the damage.

On Saturday, Trump claimed vandals inflicted a 250-foot-long gash on the pool. In his post Tuesday, he described the damage as “numerous slashes” over 350 feet, caused “by a very sharp knife or razors.” He mentioned that part of the pool bottom had been cut and lifted, creating jagged edges.

Reports to NBC News have not received responses from the U.S. Park Police, National Park Service, or the Interior Department. Among the accused is U.S. Olympic canoeist David “Davey” Hearn, who was detained for five hours after reportedly touching detached coating fragments. Hearn stated he did not damage the pool surface and was unaware of any federal law he violated.

Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor, noted that most federal cases involve felonies, not misdemeanors. He suggested the political context might affect how the cases of those arrested are handled. Trump threatened a potential 10-year prison term for destruction, possibly relating to those arrested.

To repair the pool, Trump mentioned the need to drain some water around the Fourth of July celebrations. Grass surrounding the pool is also being replaced. Despite issues, Trump remarked that “prior to fixing those areas, the Reflecting Pool is as beautiful as it can be.” The pool, part of a $14-million renovation, received a new liner and an “American flag blue” coating, a color named by Trump.