What specific evidence did the Justice Department initially rely on for the vandalism charge?

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Justice Department Initially Relied on Witness Accounts of Forceful Liner Removal

The US Justice Department initially based its felony vandalism charges against former Olympian David Hearn on witness statements that claimed he was seen "forcefully and violently" pulling up the new liner of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on June 19. Federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro announced these charges, which carried a potential sentence of 10 years imprisonment, based on these accounts. However, the department later moved to dismiss the case after new information emerged.
Witness Accounts of Hearn's Actions

Federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro stated that witnesses had observed Hearn engaging in actions described as "forcefully and violently" manipulating the pool's newly installed liner. These observations formed the primary basis for the initial charges brought against him in federal court. The accounts suggested a deliberate act of damage to the landmark.
Charges Announced by Federal Prosecutor

The charges against Hearn were formally announced by federal prosecutor Jeanine Pirro during a notable press briefing. This announcement detailed the accusation of felony vandalism, a serious offense with significant legal ramifications, including a potential decade-long prison sentence. The prosecution's stance was initially firm, relying heavily on the reported witness testimonies.
New Revelations Undermining Evidence

In a subsequent court filing, Pirro acknowledged that "new revelations" had come to light that "undermine the evidentiary basis for the indictment." These developments indicated that the damage to the Reflecting Pool was a consequence of an improperly executed installation rather than an act of vandalism. This admission led the Justice Department to seek the dismissal of the charges.

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What specific evidence did the Justice Department initially rely on for the vandalism charge?

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