Washington's Reflecting Pool to be Drained Amid Vandalism Claims

Washington, D.C. – The Reflecting Pool, a historic landmark between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, will be drained following reports of vandalism that left a long cut in the basin and triggered bright green algae and peeling paint. The U.S. Park Police said five individuals have been arrested and five others received federal citations in connection with the damage.

The District's water authority confirmed it has issued a permit to empty the pool, and the repair contractor said the structure will be restored under its warranty. The pool, which underwent a $16 million renovation earlier this year, has a history of leaks, structural issues and algae problems.

National Park Service staff have been treating the water with hydrogen peroxide in an effort to control the algae, while paint fragments have been observed floating to the surface. President Donald Trump, speaking from the Oval Office, said a "300-foot-long gash" had been cut in the pool and suggested fertilizer may have been introduced, contributing to the algae bloom.

"Please remember that there is a 10-year prison sentence for the destruction, or even the attempted destruction, of such things – which will be fully enforced," Trump wrote on his social platform.

He also indicated that his administration is preparing lawsuits against a media outlet for what he described as inaccurate reporting on the incident, stating any recovered funds would be directed to the U.S. Treasury.

The decision to drain the pool follows its recent refilling after the renovation, and officials expect the water to be replaced and the damaged sections repaired before the site reopens to visitors.