Appeal for damage to trees in Abbots Langley

Three Rivers District Council and Hertfordshire Police are making an appeal as part of an investigation into criminal damage to trees in Abbots Langley following investigations that poison was used in attempt to kill the trees, by drilling holes into them and inserting a toxin of some kind. The trees are growing on the footpath between rear gardens of Oak Green and houses on Wadham Road.

The trees have been tampered with in a manner likely to be detrimental to their long term health. This amounts to criminal damage and without the consent of the council (as owners) and is also an offence under the TPO legislation as the trees are protected. A successful prosecution for damage to protected trees can lead to fines of up to £20,000.

Councillor Chris Lloyd, Lead Member for Leisure and Community, said: “The actions of the perpetrator did not only amount to criminal damage but were also in breach of the Tree Preservation Order that is in place. Damaging, pruning, or felling protected trees without permission has serious consequences, and that the Council will not hesitate to take action against them. There are over 750 Tree Preservation Orders in place across the District and the Council will continue to protect our most valuable trees”

If you have any information about this incident please contact the Herts Police non-emergency number 101 or call Crimestoppers, the independent charity, anonymously on 0800 555 111.