Reflecting Pool reversal brings scrutiny on cases, Pirro's job security
U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro’s decision to drop cases against people suspected of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has opened a new line of scrutiny around the potential legal ramifications. As lawyers question what federal prosecutors knew and when, some suggested civil rights or defamation suits may follow. The about-face has also made Pirro, a...
US Attorney Jeanine Pirro's decision to drop charges against people suspected of damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool has sparked scrutiny. According to The Hill, lawyers are questioning what federal prosecutors knew and when, with some suggesting civil rights or defamation suits may follow.
The case involves David Hearn, a three-time Olympian accused of vandalising the pool. Pirro's office moved to drop charges, citing shoddy construction rather than vandalism as the cause of the damage. This decision has drawn criticism from President Donald Trump, who accused Pirro of "choking" under pressure and "folding like an umbrella", as reported by the South China Morning Post.
Trump had blamed the problems with the pool's renovation on vandals, claiming surveillance footage showed people cutting newly installed waterproofing material. The renovation, which cost $14.7 million, had been criticised, with the pool developing algae blooms and peeling lining. Trump expressed disappointment in Pirro, a close political ally, and speculation has arisen about her job security, with CBS News reporting that Pirro was seen leaving the White House with a large box after a meeting with Trump.
Brief written by urgent.news from The Hill, CBS News, ABC News AU, South China Morning Post — 4 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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