Washington, D.C. — Dramatic new footage has emerged showing federal authorities detaining a woman after she was caught messing with the sealant at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, highlighting aggressive efforts to protect one of America’s most iconic landmarks.
The video, shared by independent journalist Nick Sortor, shows the woman, with curly blonde hair and visible tattoos, initially bending near the water’s edge before being approached and later surrounded by a mix of U.S. Park Police officers and National Guard personnel. She is seen standing, then sitting on the grass as officers question and detain her in a coordinated response that includes uniformed law enforcement and tactical vehicles on scene.
Sortor’s post described the operation as evidence that authorities are deploying plainclothes informants to catch individuals “screwing with the sealant” in real time. “This woman has just been DETAINED after being caught,” he wrote. “Keep your hands off the freaking sealant, losers.
”The incident comes as President Trump has publicly confirmed multiple arrests tied to alleged vandalism at the pool following its recent multi-million-dollar renovation. Trump stated that five people have been arrested and five more are under investigation, including claims of deliberate damage, such as a lengthy gash cut into the new blue coating using a box cutter or similar tool.
The Reflecting Pool underwent significant upgrades under the Trump administration, including the application of an “American Flag Blue” sealant and coating intended to address long-standing issues. However, the site quickly faced challenges, including an algae bloom that turned the water green and reports of the new liner peeling and floating to the surface. Trump has blamed “sick, deranged” vandals for pouring chemicals and causing intentional damage, vowing immediate repairs and promising harsh consequences.
Law enforcement has responded with heightened security, including National Guard patrols and increased monitoring around the National Mall site. Officials have warned that tampering with or removing material from the pool could result in serious charges, including potential felonies for destruction of government property.
The video underscores a no-tolerance approach to protecting federal property and national treasures. While some have attempted to downplay incidents as mere curiosity over floating debris, authorities appear determined to treat interference seriously, especially as the pool is prepared for major upcoming national events.
This latest detention adds to a growing list of enforcement actions at the site. Supporters of the crackdown argue it sends a clear message: America’s historic landmarks are not playgrounds for disruption or political stunts.
