President Donald Trump has disputed the Justice Department’s decision to drop a case involving alleged damage to the Reflecting Pool, insisting that vandals were responsible for the site’s problems. He also criticized the department over the dismissal, according to reports.
The case involved an Olympian accused of vandalizing the landmark. Prosecutors reportedly concluded that construction flaws, including what other coverage described as a rushed or botched renovation, contributed to the condition of the pool and undermined the basis for pursuing the charge.
The decision has drawn attention within the administration, including scrutiny of Jeanine Pirro, who has been associated with the dismissal, and comments from North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum. Trump’s response reflects a disagreement with the Justice Department’s finding that renovation problems, rather than vandalism alone, explained the damage or other issues at the Reflecting Pool.
Related Coverage
- In Dropping Reflecting Pool Case, Pirro Draws Trump’s Wrath
- Trump rejects his own DOJ’s finding blaming Reflecting Pool issues on shoddy renovation
- 'Rushed and botched' | Olympian accused of vandalizing Reflecting Pool won't face charges after prosecutors admit construction flaws
- Burgum weighs in on alleged Reflecting Pool vandalism case after DOJ dismissal