Trump Ally Pirro Makes New Promise
The Trump administration is drawing a hard line against vandalism after millions of taxpayer dollars were spent restoring one of America’s most famous landmarks.
U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro warned Sunday that anyone caught damaging the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool could face serious criminal charges.
Speaking on Fox News, Pirro said federal authorities are prepared to prosecute individuals who vandalize the newly restored landmark.
“Anyone who vandalizes or attempts to damage the Reflecting Pool will face consequences through the criminal justice system,” Pirro said. “President Trump has made it a priority to make Washington, D.C., safer, cleaner, and more beautiful.”
The warning comes after the federal government invested nearly $15 million to repair and restore the iconic Reflecting Pool on the National Mall. The project included fixing leaks, resurfacing the pool, and improving its overall appearance.
However, the restoration effort has recently faced setbacks, including algae growth and damage to portions of the newly completed work.
President Donald Trump addressed the issue over the weekend, saying additional repairs may be necessary to protect the taxpayer-funded project.
After meeting with contractors, Trump said officials may need to drain much of the pool so repairs can be completed quickly and effectively.
The president has also accused vandals of intentionally trying to damage the restoration work.
According to Pirro, several citations have already been issued for acts of vandalism involving federal property. She made clear that prosecutors are prepared to pursue stronger penalties if evidence shows anyone deliberately attempted to sabotage the Reflecting Pool.
“If individuals intentionally introduced substances or chemicals that worsened the problem, we would certainly consider more serious criminal charges,” Pirro said.
The administration views the issue as more than simple property damage.
Federal officials argue that attacks on national monuments and public landmarks undermine preservation efforts that are funded by American taxpayers and enjoyed by millions of visitors each year.
Trump recently said vandalism has become a recurring problem around the National Mall and other historic sites in Washington.
Earlier this month, the numbers “86 47” appeared etched into grass near the Reflecting Pool. Trump has repeatedly argued the phrase carries a threatening meaning when directed toward him.
The president also claimed that harmful substances may have been used to damage portions of the newly restored pool.
The dispute comes as Trump continues a large-scale campaign to restore and improve Washington, D.C.’s historic landmarks.
According to the administration, crews have repaired, renovated, cleaned, or beautified more than 45 monuments and memorials, 28 statues, and 22 fountains across the nation’s capital.
Supporters say the effort is helping preserve America’s history while restoring pride in the country’s most important public spaces.
With millions already invested in the Reflecting Pool restoration, administration officials say protecting the project is a matter of respecting taxpayers, preserving national treasures, and maintaining the beauty of America’s capital.
For now, Pirro’s message is simple: anyone caught damaging these landmarks should expect to answer for it in court.
