Justice for Sycamore Gap: Two Men Convicted for Tree Felling

In a shocking trial, two men have been convicted for their role in the destruction of the beloved Sycamore Gap tree, a landmark in England's landscape, igniting widespread public indignation.

In a landmark case that has captivated the public's attention, two men were found guilty of the deliberate felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in northern England. Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, were convicted by Newcastle Crown Court on charges of criminal damage related to the incident that occurred on September 28, 2023. Despite their denials, the prosecution presented strong evidence including cellphone footage of the tragic event, dubbed a “moronic mission” by prosecutors.

The Sycamore Gap tree, a cherished feature near Hadrian’s Wall, was admired by both locals and tourists, and even featured in the 1991 film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves." Prosecutor Richard Wright revealed that the men drove from Carlisle to perpetrate the act and horrifically documented their actions. They reportedly celebrated the international media coverage following the tree's illegal felling, and Graham even kept a piece of the trunk as a trophy.

Testifying during the trial, Mr. Wright emphasized the deliberate nature of the act, referring to it as "mindless criminal damage." The tree, planted in the late 1800s, had stood for over a century, becoming a treasured memory spot in the picturesque landscape. The sentencing for Graham and Carruthers is scheduled for July 15, as the public continues to grapple with the loss of this beloved natural monument.