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CrimeNorthern England

Two Men Convicted for Cutting Down Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree

Nationwide outrage follows the destruction of a beloved landmark in northern England, leading to swift legal action.

By Lizzie DeardenSource: nytimes.com1 min read
Two Men Convicted for Cutting Down Iconic Sycamore Gap Tree
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

Two men have been found guilty of the illegal felling of the famous Sycamore Gap tree, generating public outcry and highlighting the importance of protecting natural landmarks.

In a shocking act that gripped the nation, Daniel Graham, 39, and Adam Carruthers, 32, were found guilty of cutting down the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in northern England. The tree, a cherished landmark by Hadrian's Wall, was felled on September 28, 2023, leading to widespread dismay among locals and tourists alike. Prosecutors described the act as a “deliberate and mindless criminal damage,” showcasing a video the duo filmed during their crime.Despite both men denying the allegations, evidence revealed that Graham took a piece of the tree as a trophy and that messages between the two showed them celebrating the media attention following the tree's destruction. The historic tree, planted in the late 1800s and featuring in the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," stood for over a century until its untimely demise. Sentencing for Graham and Carruthers is scheduled for July 15. Keep an eye out for more updates on this developing story.

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