Federal prosecutors decided to dismiss the felony vandalism charge against former U.S. Olympian David Hearn. He had been accused of damaging the reflecting pools in Washington, D.C. This decision came after a review of court filings obtained by Fox News Digital.
Hearn was initially indicted on July 2 for felony destruction of property. The U.S. Park Police claimed he damaged the pool’s coating on June 19, causing over $1,000 in damage. They alleged he continued even after being warned by a National Park Service employee.
The U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s office noted that the Department of the Interior initially submitted incomplete reports and failed to provide records showing significant flaws in the coating’s installation.
“Had DOI been forthcoming with the information clearly in its possession, the government would not have sought a grand jury indictment,” prosecutors stated.
Documents later revealed that the damage was due to improper installation by Atlantic Industrial Coatings, rushed for the America 250 celebration near Independence Day 2026. This made it hard for the DOJ to prove Hearn was responsible.
Prosecutors requested to dismiss the indictment without prejudice, meaning charges could be refiled in the future.
Hearn has a history of beating federal charges. Nearly three decades ago, he was arrested by the U.S. Park Police for disobeying a river closure order during near-record floods. He successfully contested the charges on a technicality, as a judge ruled the Park Police had no jurisdiction over the Potomac River.
Hearn’s recent arrest gained attention after journalist Emily Miller filmed the moment, which went viral. She accused Hearn of interfering with National Park Service workers, a claim he denied, although he acknowledged his bike might have accidentally contacted a hose.
Hearn’s attorneys seek an apology, arguing that the “Trump administration’s case against Davey Hearn should never have been brought.” They condemned the government’s approach to the case as “ready, fire, aim.” According to them, the administration owes Hearn an apology.
Fox News Digital reached out to DOI for a statement. Jackson Thompson from Fox News Digital reports on major political and cultural issues in sports.
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