NEWS STORY : Ministry of Defence Confirm Vandals of Paddington Bear Statue Work for the RAF

STORY

The RAF have confirmed that Daniel Heath and William Lawrence, who pleaded guilty to the destruction of a Paddington Bear statue designed to promote kindness and tolerance, are members of the military working at RAF Odiham. The two individuals were condemned by the judge who said:

“On the night of the 2nd of March 2025, your actions were the antithesis of everything Paddington stands for. Your actions lacked respect and integrity, two values you should uphold as members of the armed forces.”

The disgraced pair were each told to pay £2,725 compensation and will have to do unpaid work as part of their punishment.

Thames Valley Police said in a statement:

“The Paddington Bear statue is a beloved part of Newbury so we did everything we could to locate it and bring the offenders to justice. After a short stay at Newbury police station, we handed the statue back to its owners so it can be restored. Criminal damage and theft are serious offences regardless of the target, and we will always look to investigate and have offenders punished proportionately, including being put before the courts.”

The disgraced vandals are expected to be dismissed from the RAF.