The controversy centers on a federal restoration effort valued at more than $14 million, launched as part of preparations for the United States’ 250th anniversary celebrations. The project sought to transform the Reflecting Pool by introducing a blue-colored lining intended to enhance reflections of the Washington Monument.

Soon after the refurbished pool was unveiled, however, algae growth reportedly turned the water green, prompting maintenance crews to apply chemical treatments. The measures were followed by reports that sections of the blue coating began peeling from the bottom and sides of the pool, drawing public attention and media scrutiny.

In posts on his social media platform, Trump alleged that vandals had damaged both the pool and surrounding grounds. He claimed that grass near the site had been destroyed and that individuals had attempted to damage the newly installed interior surface.

Federal agencies responsible for maintaining and securing the National Mall, including the U.S. Park Police, the National Park Service and the Department of the Interior, did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the allegations.

Trump later stated that Park Police had arrested multiple individuals in connection with vandalism at the Reflecting Pool, describing the incidents as serious crimes involving national monuments. No official details regarding arrests or charges were released.

One individual identified as having been detained was David Hearn, a 67-year-old resident of Bethesda, Maryland, and former Olympic canoe racer. Hearn told The Associated Press that he stopped at the Reflecting Pool during a bicycle ride and briefly touched a section of the peeling coating to examine its texture.

According to Hearn, he immediately withdrew after being instructed by a park employee but was subsequently detained by National Guard personnel and Park Police for approximately five hours before being released. He said he had been ordered to appear in court next month.

Hearn denied causing damage to the site, describing himself as a curious visitor interested in observing the renovation work. He said the material he touched appeared soft and rubber-like.

The reported detention came as public attention focused on visible deterioration at the recently refurbished pool, including algae accumulation and peeling sections of the blue lining. The causes of those issues have not been officially determined.

Trump also suggested that unidentified individuals may have used chemicals to damage the site, drawing a comparison to a separate incident involving discolored grass on the National Mall where the numbers “86 47” appeared. Authorities have said they are investigating that matter, which some interpreted as a reference to the 47th president.

The Reflecting Pool project has faced increasing scrutiny in recent days as images of maintenance crews removing algae and addressing surface damage circulated widely, raising questions about the effectiveness and durability of the renovation effort.