President Donald Trump has called for those who vandalized the newly renovated Reflecting Pool on the National Mall to face serious criminal charges that could result in lengthy prison sentences.
Background
The Reflecting Pool, which reopened earlier this month following a $14 million renovation, has been experiencing issues with algae blooms and a peeling bottom. Trump accused individuals of vandalizing the pool, which he said had been ‘vandalized’ in a Truth Social post.
While prosecutors in Washington, DC, haven’t yet formally brought charges, the Justice Department will need to decide how aggressively it will pursue people who were arrested and cited over the weekend. The US Park Police have issued citations for misdemeanors, including vandalizing, disorderly conduct, or defacing public property.
Response
Trump’s post suggested that the cases could be charged as more serious crimes if US Attorney Jeanine Pirro decides they should be. Pirro stated that those who vandalized or tried to vandalize the pool will ‘face the criminal justice system in DC.’ A destruction of government property offense could be charged as a felony in federal court if the damage is significant, carrying a maximum fine of up to $250,000 or 10 years in prison.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
