Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, have been sentenced to four years and three months in prison for the criminal damage of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree, which stood for over a century in Northumberland. The verdict was delivered at Newcastle Crown Court, where the judge stated the pair would be eligible for release after serving a minimum of 40% of their sentences. In addition, they will serve an extra six months concurrently for the damage inflicted upon Hadrian’s Wall during the course of their actions.
The tree was felled during Storm Agnes on September 28, 2023, in what the prosecution described as a “moronic mission.” Judge Lambert expressed skepticism regarding the defendants’ claims of intoxication as a mitigating factor, reiterating that their actions were intentional and deliberate, as evidenced by Carruthers’ use of spray paint on the tree prior to felling it and Graham’s recording of the act on his mobile phone.
Defense lawyers presented their clients as having committed the act in a moment of “drunken stupidity,” but the court rejected these assertions. Judge Lambert commented on the defendants’ behavior following the incident, where they seemed to take pleasure in the media attention surrounding their actions, which she found troubling.
The felling of the Sycamore Gap tree has resonated deeply with the public, leading to an outcry and nearly 600 responses in a month to a designated email set up by the National Trust to collect public sentiments. The general manager of the Sycamore Gap site, Andrew Poad, remarked that the tree was a “totemic symbol” and emphasized that it could “never be replaced.”
Graham and Carruthers’ actions have left many questioning their motivations, with Detective Inspector Calum Meikle noting that understanding the reason behind such a senseless act may remain elusive.
Reflecting on the situation, it remains a poignant reminder of the impact that individuals can have on cherished natural landmarks. Their sentencing serves as a warning against such acts of vandalism, emphasizing the importance of preserving our environment for future generations to enjoy.