Federal prosecutors have moved to dismiss a vandalism case involving former Olympic canoeist David Hearn, according to reports. Hearn had been accused of damaging the Reflecting Pool, but prosecutors now say the damage was caused by a “botched installation” rather than criminal conduct.
The Justice Department’s request would end the case if approved by the court. The move follows earlier charges alleging that Hearn was responsible for damage at the landmark site. Details about the disputed installation and the circumstances surrounding the alleged vandalism were not provided.
The case has drawn attention because of Hearn’s status as an ex-Olympian and because the decision comes from prosecutors under the Trump administration. The dismissal request represents a reversal from the earlier prosecution, though the court must still act on the government’s motion.
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- Trump administration drops Reflecting Pool case, blaming damage on ‘botched’ installation