A D.C.judge rejected a government request to bar three-time Olympian David Hearn from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool after he pleaded not guilty to a felony destruction of property charge.U.S.

Attorney Jeanine Pirro brought the charge following issues with President Donald Trump's $14 million pool renovation, including peeling paint and algae blooms.

Pirro claimed Hearn 'forcefully and violently' ripped up two square feet of the pool's blue liner on June 19, while Hearn argued he only touched a pre-existing peeling section.

The judge, Carmen McLean, released Hearn without restrictions, with his attorney Mary Dohrmann stating, 'It is not a crime to touch the Reflecting Pool.' The justice system's role in determining facts over political cover was emphasized.NBC News noted the pool's sealant was already peeling before Hearn arrived.Hearn is the only defendant facing felony charges, while at least six others face misdemeanors.A status hearing is scheduled for August 5.

The case highlights tensions between political figures and public infrastructure maintenance, raising questions about accountability for the pool's condition.