President Donald Trump issued a stark warning on Monday concerning vandalism at the National Mall. He connected the ‘8647’ marking on the grass to additional damage observed near the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.
The ‘8647’ numbers first appeared on the National Mall lawn on June 11. Authorities responded to the initial reports of the numbers etched into browned grass and began an investigation. Around the same time, issues emerged at the reflecting pool. This occurred soon after it reopened in early June following a renovation project exceeding $14 million. Algae blooms and peeling paint were noted within days of reopening. Officials are now investigating the vandalism and making arrests related to activities around the pool.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump stressed that federal authorities would impose severe penalties for vandalism. He stated, “Of the MANY Statues and Fountains that we rebuilt, renovated, cleaned, and fixed, the only one that was Vandalized was the Reflecting Pool, which is being taken care of, ASAP!”
He continued, “It has been given a 300-foot-long gash, chemicals have been illegally placed in the water, and the beautiful new grass field has been destroyed with a gigantic 86 47 chemically carved into it (Probably inspired by Dirty Cop, James Comey!). Please remember there is a 10-year prison sentence for the destruction, or even the attempted destruction, of such things – Which will be fully enforced! Thank you for your attention to this matter.”
Newsweek contacted the White House via email for a comment. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as information becomes available.

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