Charges Dropped Against Former U.S. Olympic Canoeist David Hearn

Federal prosecutors requested the dismissal of an indictment against David Hearn, a former U.S. Olympic canoeist. The indictment accused Hearn of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The prosecutors cited new information indicating that the damage resulted from a contractor’s “botched installation,” not vandalism.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Washington, D.C. initially charged Hearn with felony destruction of government property. They alleged the damage exceeded $1,000 and affected the new sealant at the pool’s bottom. This project was supported by President Trump. Hearn has consistently denied these accusations.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office has not provided further comments. CBS News has reached out to the Justice Department and Hearn’s legal team for additional statements. This story is ongoing and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.