Overview
- Federal prosecutors moved to dismiss the felony case against David Hearn after Interior Department records and site forensics concluded peeling and damage stemmed from a botched, fast‑tracked liner installation rather than vandalism.
- The dismissal was filed without prejudice, so prosecutors can refile charges, and a judge will hold a hearing to consider whether the case should be dismissed with prejudice to bar future prosecution.
- Reporting shows White House officials asked the Justice Department to consider reviving the case or pursuing a misdemeanor, a request that has raised concerns about political pressure on prosecutors.
- House Judiciary Democrats led by Rep. Jamie Raskin have opened a records probe seeking communications between the White House, DOJ and Interior plus grand‑jury materials to determine who knew what and when.
- Forensic reports and contract records cite a largely no‑bid $14–16 million renovation, delaminated seams, altered polyurea liner material and clogged circulation piping as causes of widespread peeling that undercut attributing additional damage to Hearn.