A 56-year-old man has been hit with a hefty bill after wrecking 20 parking signs at Ashdown Forest. Police caught him in October when a car park sign was spotted ripped off and dumped in the bushes.
£2,700 Compensation for Vandalism
The man owned up to smashing multiple signs across the forest. To avoid court, he agreed to pay the Conservators of Ashdown Forest £2,752.92 in compensation under a Community Resolution. This deal, used for minor offences, lets offenders make amends without going to trial.
Sussex Police Crack Down on Vandalism
“There are consequences for behaviour of this kind,” said PC Pete Hall from Sussex Police’s rural crime team.
“Anyone identified as being responsible for damaging or defacing signage in the forest will be dealt with. This particular individual has been hit with a hefty financial penalty.”
Ongoing Damage Sparks Warning
This comes amid a spate of sign vandalism in Ashdown Forest since last November.
Police urge anyone who spots criminal damage or has information to report it online or call 101. In emergencies, always dial 999.
