Call for Investigations into Prosecution of Former Olympian David Hearn

Federal officials should undertake thorough investigations of the prosecution of former Olympian David Hearn. This follows a judge’s decision to clear him of accusations relating to damage at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. On Tuesday, Hearn’s attorneys requested the Departments of Justice and Interior’s inspectors general to carry out coordinated, independent investigations into his arrest on June 19 and subsequent prosecution, as detailed in a 21-page letter acquired by Newsweek.

The letter mentions that due to actions by DOJ and DOI workers, Hearn faced false charges, potential imprisonment of up to ten years, and reputational damage at the hands of senior officials like Jeanine Pirro, Doug Burgum, and President Donald Trump.

Hearn’s attorneys argue that the Department of Justice and the Department of the Interior wrongful actions culminated in his unfounded arrest and indictment. They accuse these departments of attempting to cover up their mistakes with the Reflecting Pool renovation by unjustly prosecuting Hearn. Judge Todd Edelman dismissed the charges against Hearn after prosecutors recognized that the damage resulted from a flawed installation rather than vandalism.

Hearn’s legal team emphasizes the importance of scrutinizing his arrest, detention, and the pressures leading to the indictment despite evidence of installation defects. They also call for investigating the role of U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro in the case.

The legal team points out that the USAO-DC pursued action against Hearn despite clear evidence exonerating him. There was misleading information presented to the Court about when the defects were identified to hide misconduct. Pirro dismissed the case after new Department of Interior evidence revealed the damage was due to contractor error during a rushed project completion for America’s 250th celebration in Washington.

The letter concludes by stressing the need for prompt and comprehensive investigations by the DOJ and DOI inspector general offices into the renovation and the ordeal Hearn experienced.

Following the dismissal, Hearn stated that the verdict was a triumph for democracy. He expressed gratitude for support from loved ones, the community, his legal team, and the public. He remarked on the need to stay vigilant against abuses of power, highlighting this as a battle for the nation’s morals.