Donald Trump expressed significant frustration with U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's office after charges were dismissed against a former Olympian accused of vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The former president publicly criticized Pirro, a longtime ally and friend, stating he was "really disappointed" and that she "folded like an umbrella."
Sources familiar with the situation told the Daily Mail that Trump was particularly angered by not being informed of the decision to dismiss the charges in advance. The news of the dismissal, which government lawyers acknowledged was likely due to a botched installation, was reportedly intended as a Friday evening news dump but drew media attention the following day. Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, on Saturday to question Pirro's judgment in the case, calling it a "pure case of vandalism" and stating he disagreed "100 percent."
The situation escalated by Monday, with Trump speaking to reporters in the Oval Office about his disappointment. Pirro, who was appointed U.S. Attorney for Washington, D.C., last year, reportedly met with Trump later that day, bringing evidence in a box to the White House. Sources indicated that while Trump was initially angry, he became understanding after Pirro personally detailed the evidence to him. She is described as having "taken the hit" and not attempting to shift blame.
Despite the public criticism and the internal meeting, sources close to Trump suggested he was unlikely to fire Pirro, as the case was considered institutionally over within the Justice Department. Pirro, known for her direct approach, reportedly maintains a close circle and is not considered a "leaker."
The charges were dismissed against David Hearn, a former Olympic canoeist accused of vandalizing the restored Reflecting Pool.