Donald Trump pressures Jeanine Pirro to reopen Reflecting Pool vandalism cases

President Donald Trump is publicly pressuring U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro to reopen criminal cases involving alleged vandalism at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The dispute follows Pirro's decision to dismiss charges against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn and three others, after investigations suggested the damage resulted from a "botched installation" by contractor Atlantic Industrial Coatings rather than intentional vandalism.

Trump has criticized the decision as "hastily made," citing photographs that he claims show extensive cuts in the pool's liner. He has also criticized Hearn's legal representation and political affiliations. The conflict has caused a visible rift between Trump and Pirro, a longtime ally, with the President stating he is "very disappointed" and has not yet determined if her position as U.S. Attorney is secure.

Reports indicate Pirro attempted to defend her decision in the Oval Office by presenting a box of evidence to the President, which reportedly led to a heated clash with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, who has maintained the vandalism narrative.