Conviction in Iconic Tree Destruction Case

In a case that caught public attention, two individuals have been found guilty of destroying the iconic Sycamore Gap tree in Northern England.

Verdict Delivered

On Friday, the Newcastle Crown Court jury delivered its verdict, convicting Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers on two separate charges of causing criminal damage for their roles in cutting down the tree, which also led to it falling on the historic Hadrian's Wall.

Jury Decision

The jury deliberated for about four hours on a Thursday, returning the following day on Friday morning to give their decision after just under half an hour of further discussion.

Despite their past friendship, both defendants denied involvement, with Graham casting blame on Carruthers during testimony.

Evidence Against Defendants

Prosecutors presented compelling evidence, including a video from Graham's phone capturing the moment the tree was felled. They also detailed the route of Graham's vehicle, a Range Rover, heading towards the site on the night the crime occurred in September 2023.

Boasting Messages

The jury was shown text and voice messages exchanged between the two men, in which they bragged about their actions as the news of the tree's destruction made headlines worldwide.

Financial Impact

According to the prosecution, the tree was appraised at over 620,000 pounds, equivalently around $830,000, while the damage to the adjoining wall was approximated at 1,100 pounds, nearly $1,500.