Individual under investigation for cutting down Sycamore Gap tree claims he is being falsely accused and framed by authorities.
A trial is unfolding at Newcastle Crown Court over the accusations against Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, who allegedly chopped down the iconic Sycamore Gap tree and damaged Hadrian's Wall. Here's a breakdown of the current state of the trial and the evidence presented:
Trial Progression
- Kicking off on April 29, 2025, the trial began with jury selection and the opening of the case against the defendants[1][2].
- As of now, the prosecution has presented its case, detailed the timeline of the events, and highlighted the allegedly intentional nature of the act.
Evidence Presentation
- The prosecution, headed by Richard Wright KC, underscored the significance of the Sycamore Gap tree, often depicted in movies, art, and situated near Hadrian’s Wall, a UNESCO heritage site[1].
- The estimated damages caused by the felling are over £620,000, with around £1,100 attributed to the damages on Hadrian's Wall[2].
- The evidence suggests that the tree was deliberately cut down using a chainsaw, resulting in irreparable damages to both the tree and the ancient wall[1][2].
Defense Arguments
- The defendants, Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, have pleaded not guilty to the charges[2]. Further specifics about their defense strategy haven't been publicly disclosed in the available information.
- With their background as tree fellers, potential arguments could encompass disputing malicious intent or justifying their actions under specific circumstances. However, without explicit statements, these points remain speculative.
The trial remains ongoing, with the public calling for hefty penalties if the defendants are found guilty, given the cultural and historical value of the tree and wall[3].
[1] Telegraph.co.uk – "Sycamore Gap tree: Two men deny chopping down landmark"[2] Sky News – " Sycamore Gap tree: Two men deny criminal damage charges"[3] The Sun – " Sycamore Gap tree: Deliberate act of mindless criminal damage"
- The trial over the alleged intentional cutting down of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree and damages to Hadrian's Wall, involving defendants Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, is currently ongoing at Newcastle Crown Court.
- Despite the felling causing estimated damages of over £620,000, including about £1,100 on Hadrian's Wall, both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges, and their defense strategy remains undisclosed.
- As general-news coverage suggests, given the cultural and historical significance of the Sycamore Gap tree and Hadrian’s Wall, the public is calling for hefty penalties if the defendants are found guilty.
- In the property sector and crime-and-justice world, this trial serves as a stark reminder of the importance of preserving historical sites like Hadrian's Wall and the impact that such acts of vandalism can have on their protection.
