Police charge woman over damage to Chloe Mitchell memorial garden in Ballymena

Memorial Garden for Chloe Mitchell

A woman has been charged in connection with a report of criminal damage to a memorial garden, understood to be that which is dedicated to murder victim Chloe Mitchell in the Wakehurst Park area of Ballymena.

Police confirmed that the 38-year-old woman was charged following an incident that took place on Sunday, 11 May. She is expected to appear before Ballymena Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 13 May.

The allegations centre on reported damage caused to a memorial located on Larne Street, in the Harryville area of the town. The tribute was created in memory of Chloe Mitchell, whose death in 2023 shocked the local community and prompted a wave of public support.

The incident was first brought to public attention by the social media page ‘Justice for Chloe Mitchell’.

A statement shared by the page claimed that “a woman entered the garden on Larne Street, in the Harryville area of the town, and caused damage to the memorial.” It further noted that “the incident was recorded on CCTV.”

Police have confirmed that the woman has been charged with criminal damage, and, in line with standard procedures in Northern Ireland, all charges will be reviewed by the Public Prosecution Service (PPS).

The memorial garden has been a focal point for tributes since Chloe Mitchell’s death, with many residents and supporters of the Justice for Chloe campaign visiting the site to pay their respects.