It is easy to admire Hill for her conviction, her willingness to sacrifice for her cause and her pluck. You've got to tip your hat when one determined young woman beats a large corporation. She provides a clear contrast to vandals who acted anonymously and furtively. Their failure to come forward makes the actions of Hill seem that much more noble. Thus, trespassing begets vandalism.
Lawlessness excites more lawlessness.
Pity the local law enforcement community. Authorities can and should go after the tree-cutting culprits. They cut a tree. It's a beautiful tree. It's an old tree.