U.S. Prosecutor Warns of Charges Over Lincoln Memorial Pool Damage

June 22, 2026
By Mintesinot Nigussie

U.S. authorities have warned that anyone responsible for damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will face prosecution as officials investigate problems that emerged shortly after the completion of a 14.7 million US dollars renovation project.

U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro said citations for vandalism had already been issued and that offences linked to damage at the National Mall landmark would be pursued.

The 2,000-foot-long pool has faced several issues since its renovation was completed on June 6, including peeling blue paint and an algae bloom that has caused parts of the water to turn green.

President Donald Trump has blamed vandalism for the problems, claiming that corrosive chemicals were poured into the pool, although he did not provide evidence to support the allegation. He has also warned that individuals who introduce substances that encourage algae growth could face more serious charges.

The National Park Service has taken steps to address the algae issue, including using hydrogen peroxide in the pool earlier this week.

Trump first raised concerns about possible vandalism on Friday, when he said in a social media post that most of the algae had been removed. He later accused ABC News journalist Jonathan Karl of attempting to damage the pool’s surface, a claim that was not supported with evidence.

The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool remains one of Washington’s most recognised public landmarks and has hosted major national gatherings throughout its history.

Source: FSX Business News