Sycamore Tree Vandal Freed Early

Adam Carruthers, one of two men responsible for the destruction of the famed Sycamore Gap Tree, has been released early from his prison sentence. He was freed in March under the Home Detention Curfew Scheme, a decision made by the prison governor following a risk assessment. Carruthers, aged 33, must now wear an electronic tag and remain at a registered address as part of strict license conditions.

Carruthers and his former best friend, Daniel Graham, were sentenced in July of last year to four years and three months for the 'mindless vandalism' of the 19th-century sycamore. The iconic tree, which stood beside Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, was felled using a chainsaw in the darkness of September 27, 2023. The pair were also convicted of criminal damage to Hadrian's Wall, as the ancient tree fell on the monument. The sycamore gained international fame after appearing in the 1991 film 'Robin Hood: Prince Of Thieves' starring Kevin Costner.