Ciara McElvogue comments on the Sycamore Gap sentencing, in Solicitors Journal

Ciara McElvogue has provided comment in Solicitors Journal on the sentencing of Adam Carruthers and Daniel Graham to four years and three months for the felling of the iconic Sycamore Gap tree.

Commenting on the sentencing, Ciara said: “The custodial sentences passed reflect the deliberate act of felling of the Sycamore Gap tree and the damage caused to Hadrian’s wall. The court had to assess the culpability of the defendants, and the high degree of harm caused.

“The Judge found the defendants equally culpable for the destruction of these landmarks, and therefore passed equal sentences. These sentences consider both the significant cultural and heritage status of the tree as well as the social impact on the wider community and the nation as a whole.”

Ciara’s comments were published in Solicitors Journal, 15 July 2025.