Woman remanded after criminal damage to Chloe Mitchell Memorial Garden in Ballymena

A 38-year-old woman has been remanded in custody following a court appearance for criminal damage to a memorial garden in Wakehurst Park, Ballymena, dedicated to Chloe Mitchell, a young woman murdered in June 2023.

Kathryn Barr, of Larne Road, appeared before Ballymena Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday morning after admitting to causing damage at the commemorative site. The incident occurred on Monday, 12th May, and was reported by a local resident who also provided CCTV footage to police.

The video evidence reportedly showed Barr entering the garden, scattering decorative stones and flowers, and damaging ornamental items including butterflies. The estimated cost of the damage is £200.

The reporting resident recognised the defendant, and further CCTV footage from the surrounding area corroborated the account.

During the hearing, defence counsel described Barr as a vulnerable individual, highlighting her early guilty plea and noting that she believed herself to be 32 years old, despite being 38. It was also stated that she lives alone with the support of her brother, although the two had experienced a disagreement on the day of the offence.

The court was told that Barr was unaware of the garden’s significance.

Police opposed bail, citing the proximity of the defendant’s residence to the site—just 0.3 miles away—as well as ongoing concerns for her safety due to threats made on social media. Officers also pointed to the defendant’s previous record, which includes 18 convictions and 17 bench warrants issued in 2024 alone.

District Judge Nigel Broderick commented that the defendant “seems to present with a complex background and history.”

Barr was remanded in custody and the case was adjourned and is set to return to court for sentencing on 10 June.

Speaking on the matter, Chief Inspector Tate stated:

“This is another example showing our continued determination and commitment to work with the communities we serve, to bring offenders to justice for their criminal behaviour.

“It can be really upsetting when something that is important to the local community is deliberately damaged or broken by other people, so it’s important for these incidents to be reported to police.

“Individuals who engage in this type of behaviour have no right to cause fear amongst communities and their actions will certainly not be tolerated. Please continue to help us help you, by reporting your concerns via our 101 number.”

The Chloe Mitchell Memorial Garden was created in memory of the 21-year-old woman whose tragic death in June 2023 deeply affected the local community.