Federal authorities say anyone caught damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will face full prosecution, following allegations of vandalism at the recently renovated landmark on Washington’s National Mall.
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said Sunday that citations have already been issued and that even minor acts of vandalism will be pursued through the criminal justice system. Her comments come amid public claims by President Donald Trump that vandalism is responsible for visible damage to the pool, including peeling paint and water quality issues.
Federal Response
Pirro said enforcement is necessary to protect public spaces in the nation’s capital.
“Anyone who is in a position of vandalizing or attempting to vandalize will face the criminal justice system in D.C.,” Pirro said during an appearance on Fox News’ Sunday Briefing.
She added that prosecuting low-level offenses is part of maintaining safety and preservation at nationally significant sites.
Renovation Concerns
The Reflecting Pool, a 2,000-foot-long rectangular body of water located between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, recently underwent a $14.7 million renovation. President Trump declared the project complete on June 6.
Less than two weeks later, sections of blue paint along the pool were visibly peeling. On Saturday, Trump said the pool would be drained for repairs and alleged that corrosive chemicals had been poured into the water. He did not provide evidence to support the claim.
In a Truth Social post on Sunday, Trump described the pool as “seriously vandalized” and blamed what he called “sick” and “deranged” individuals for its condition.
Water Quality Issues
In addition to peeling paint, the Reflecting Pool has experienced an algae bloom that caused the water to appear green. Pirro said individuals who introduce substances that contribute to algae growth could face more serious charges.
Earlier this week, workers from the National Park Service added hydrogen peroxide to the pool in an effort to reduce the algae.
Trump said Friday that about 75 percent of the algae had been cleared.
Media Accusations
Trump also accused ABC News journalist Jonathan Karl of attempting to damage the surface of the pool. ABC News did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the allegation.
Outlook
National Park Service officials have not publicly detailed the cause of the paint deterioration or algae growth. Federal prosecutors say investigations into potential vandalism are ongoing.
Authorities emphasized that the Reflecting Pool is a protected national landmark and that damage to it will be treated as a criminal matter, regardless of scale.
FAQs
What is happening at the Reflecting Pool?
Officials report damage and water quality issues after renovations.
Who warned about prosecution?
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro issued the warning.
What damage has been reported?
Peeling paint and an algae bloom in the pool.
Was the pool recently renovated?
Yes, a $14.7 million project was completed in June.
Are investigations ongoing?
Yes, authorities say potential vandalism is under review.
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