Sycamore Gap Vandals Sentenced for Landmark Damage

Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers were each sentenced to four years and three months in prison for the premeditated felling of the 200-year-old Sycamore Gap tree, as well as damaging Hadrian's Wall, both iconic landmarks in northern England. The judge, Christina Lambert, described their actions as deliberate and 'moronic,' citing widespread public distress and the high degree of planning as reasons for the unprecedented sentence for illegal tree felling in the UK. Evidence including a video and incriminating messages was recovered from Graham's phone, aided by a tip-off and digital forensic analysis. Although the pair claimed drunkenness and no clear motive, these were rejected by the court. The tree, featured in 'Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves,' has shown signs of regrowth, which influenced the charge of criminal damage rather than destruction. The case underscored the strong emotional and cultural ties communities have to natural landmarks and the severe consequences for vandalism.