Trump Criticizes Pirro for Dropping Charges in Vandalism Case
President Donald Trump expressed disappointment on Monday at U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s decision to drop charges against a former Olympian accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. He described Pirro as having ‘choked’ and ‘folded like an umbrella.’
Speaking from the Oval Office at an event unrelated to the vandalism case, Trump avoided questions regarding Pirro’s potential dismissal from her role. Despite appointing her as the federal prosecutor in the capital, he remained critical of her actions.
Trump criticized the assessment that damage to the Reflecting Pool stemmed from poor construction instead of vandalism. ‘I think she choked because the judge was really vicious,’ said Trump in response to a reporter’s question. He added, ‘I don’t know what the hell happened.’
The dismissal of charges against David Hearn, who was accused of minor vandalism during a bike ride near the Reflecting Pool, marked a notable setback for the Justice Department. Trump had disagreed publicly with Pirro’s decision and continued to express frustration, reiterating his view that vandalism affected the project.
Pirro, seen at the White House later that evening, has not publicly responded to Trump’s criticism. Also seen was Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, a vocal supporter of Trump’s thoughts on potential vandalism.
Louisiana Senator John Kennedy commented on Pirro’s situation, pointing out the seriousness of making unsubstantiated allegations before a federal judge. Hearn might pursue compensation under the Federal Tort Claims Act, added Kennedy.
Charges against three others accused of minor vandalism at the Reflecting Pool were also dropped. These individuals had pleaded not guilty in recent court appearances.
Trump distanced himself from the Reflecting Pool project, initially endorsed as part of efforts to revitalize the capital. Although acknowledging past involvement with the contractor, he now claims no connection, despite previously mentioning ties to the contractor from work done at his golf properties.
The firm Atlantic Industrial Coatings received a $14.7 million contract for work on the Reflecting Pool. Trump mentioned his dissatisfaction with the urgency and quality of the project, although it was aimed to be completed for Independence Day celebrations. Currently, crews are working on further repairs, with no updates on completion or additional costs. Trump suggested that the pool would reopen soon, without giving specifics.