U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated on Sunday that individuals found vandalizing the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will face full prosecution. Her remarks followed President Donald Trump's assertions that vandalism was responsible for recent issues with the newly renovated pool.
Pirro emphasized on Fox News’ “Sunday Briefing” program that even minor offenses must be prosecuted to ensure the safety of 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.," she said.
Problems at the pool, which reopened on June 6 after a $14.7 million renovation, include new blue paint peeling off and an algae bloom that has turned the water green. Trump claimed on Saturday, without offering evidence, that vandals had poured corrosive chemicals into the water. Citations for vandalism have already been issued, according to Pirro.
Adding products to the pool that could cause algae growth may result in more severe charges, Pirro noted. Workers from the National Park Service recently used hydrogen peroxide in an attempt to combat the algae.
President Trump first raised concerns about vandalism on Friday, suggesting on social media that 75% of the algae had been removed. He also accused ABC News journalist Jonathan Karl of attempting to damage the pool's surface, though ABC News had not immediately responded to a request for comment.