Additional Coverage:
- Public told not to ‘loiter’ near failed Reflecting Pool as National Guard troops control perimeter (themirror.com)
The White House is taking visible measures to deter further vandalism at the Reflecting Pool, as evidenced by a surveillance device installed at the site that intermittently broadcasts warnings against loitering.
A video shared on the social media platform X captures four National Guard members patrolling near the pool while an automated message plays: “Loitering is not permitted in this area. Please proceed to a designated location. Thank you for your cooperation.”
This increased security comes in the wake of a recent video released by U.S. Park Police showing a suspect allegedly damaging the landmark. The Reflecting Pool, which underwent an extensive $16 million renovation, has recently attracted renewed scrutiny due to issues such as algae growth, peeling paint, and the discovery of a dead bird.
On June 19 around 3:36 p.m., park police began an investigation into “Destruction of Government Property” after footage surfaced showing an individual near the water’s edge dipping their hand into the pool. The person, dressed in black shorts and a gray t-shirt and carrying a light-colored purse, is seen placing the bag down and reaching into the water multiple times while standing with others nearby.
Authorities have appealed to the public for assistance in identifying this individual, though they have not detailed the specific nature of the damage caused.
Earlier this week, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed the arrest of six individuals described as “deranged” for allegedly vandalizing and desecrating the Reflecting Pool. Adding to the controversy, former President Trump claimed on Truth Social that chemicals were “illegally placed in the water” and alleged a “300-foot-long gash” had been made in the pool.
In April, officials announced plans to drain and resurface the Reflecting Pool with an estimated cost of $2 million. However, soon after the pool was refilled, it appeared green due to an algal bloom, and fragments of the pool’s blue surface have been observed floating in the water.
Compounding concerns, a dead duck was found in the pool over the weekend, and two additional ducks were removed from a nearby pond at Constitution Gardens, approximately 250 feet away. April Linton, president of City Wildlife, suggested the birds might have been affected by exposure to the pool, possibly linked to the peeling paint or algae.
Additionally, National Park Service staff discovered two cuts in the foam sections between the pool’s expansion joints, according to government documents obtained by The New York Times. These cuts, however, appear unrelated to the algae or the distinctive “American flag blue” coating covering the pool.