Charges permanently dismissed against former Olympian David Hearn in Reflecting Pool case

A D.C. judge on Thursday permanently dismissed the criminal case against former Olympian canoeist David Hearn with prejudice, barring prosecutors from refiling the charges.

Hearn was accused of intentionally damaging the newly placed lining of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in early July.

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But prosecutors dismissed the charges after determining the issue was due to a botched installation by the contractor.

A D.C. judge initially granted a request from the Department of Justice to dismiss the felony charge without prejudice, meaning prosecutors could still file charges.

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The Reflecting Pool has faced several issues in recent months, including algae growth, peeling paint, and vandalism.