President Donald Trump continued to assert on Monday that "vandalism" was the cause of problems at the recently renovated Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, describing a "350-foot slit" cut into the pool's lining with a "box-cutter or a knife of some kind." "I saw it. They cut it. They cut it very violently," Trump told reporters. He also claimed the pool's floor was cut and lifted, stating, "And that's what it is."

The Reflecting Pool has experienced issues with algae and peeling paint in the days following the completion of a renovation project that cost over $16 million, exceeding its estimated cost by $4 million. An Interior Department spokesperson previously stated that the algae was a residual issue stemming from reactivated supply lines.

President Trump directed inquiries about ongoing investigations into the alleged damages to the Interior Department and the National Park Service, but he did not present his own evidence of vandalism. A statement from an Interior Department spokesperson confirmed that five individuals had been arrested and five others received federal citations. The statement also indicated that 14 police reports for vandalism had been filed, including the incident described by the President.

The U.S. Park Police are responsible for maintaining law and order in Washington D.C. and will continue their duties. Trump had initially claimed the pool lining was cut in a social media post on Saturday, at that time stating the gash was 250 feet long. Neither the Interior Department nor the White House has publicly provided evidence to support the claim that the pool lining was cut.

When pressed for proof of the alleged slit, Trump deferred, suggesting that the Parks Department or the Secretary could provide the information. He reiterated that he had seen the damage and described it as a violent cut. Trump also indicated that images of the alleged cut would be released in court at the "right time," but again advised to contact the Department of the Interior for details.

The renovation of the Reflecting Pool was completed just before the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. The project aimed to address wear and tear on the historic monument, which is a focal point for national commemorations.

Public records for such incidents are managed by the U.S. Park Police, and the D.C. court system's records are searchable by specific names or case numbers. Typically, court records are not available until an appearance is made, and making a formal Freedom of Information Act request can be a lengthy procedure.

Officials are continuing cleanup and assessment of the Reflecting Pool to determine the full extent of the issues and ensure its proper functioning for public viewing, particularly as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.