2 men convicted in chainsaw massacre of UKs beloved Sycamore Gap tree

Published: Friday, May 9, 2025 at 2:37 pm

Chainsaw Massacre: Men Convicted in Destruction of UK's Beloved Sycamore Gap Tree

In a case that has captivated the UK, two men, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, have been found guilty of criminal damage for felling the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in Northumberland National Park. The verdict, delivered by a jury in Newcastle Crown Court, comes after a swift deliberation period, highlighting the strength of the evidence presented.

The crime, which occurred in September 2023, involved the deliberate destruction of a tree cherished for its picturesque setting and historical significance. The Sycamore Gap tree, known for its location alongside Hadrian's Wall and its appearance in the film "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves," was a popular landmark attracting tourists and locals alike.

The prosecution presented compelling digital evidence, including a grainy video from Graham's phone capturing the tree's final moments. Metadata pinpointed the video's location and tracked Graham's vehicle to the scene. The men were also shown excitedly discussing the tree's demise in the aftermath, with Carruthers even joking about the act.

The defendants, who were once close friends, attempted to deflect blame, with Graham accusing Carruthers and Carruthers downplaying the significance of the act. However, the evidence, including the video and text messages, proved too strong. The men now face potentially lengthy prison sentences, with the maximum penalty for criminal damage being 10 years. Sentencing is scheduled for July 15th. The motive for the crime remains unclear, with prosecutors suggesting it was a senseless act of vandalism.

BNN's Perspective: This case underscores the profound connection people have with nature and the outrage that can be sparked by its destruction. While the act itself may seem trivial to some, the emotional impact and the historical significance of the Sycamore Gap tree make this a significant case. The severity of the sentence will be a key factor in determining the appropriate punishment for this act of vandalism.

Keywords: Sycamore Gap tree, tree felling, criminal damage, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall, Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Daniel Graham, Adam Carruthers, chainsaw, vandalism, UK news, Newcastle Crown Court, landmark, iconic tree, sentencing, vandalism, crime, England, British news, tree destruction.

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