Richard Gere is reportedly facing a fine of up to 50,000 dollars for chopping down as many as 200 trees in Pound Ridge in Westchester.
The ‘Pretty Woman’ actor opened the bed-and-breakfast Bedford Post inside a restored farmhouse with wife Carey Lowell in February.
According to Bedford’’s Record-Review, the deforestation in nearby Pound Ridge to create a paddock for his horses was said to have not gone down too well with the neighbours, reports the New York Post.
Record-Review editor R.J. Marx said: “The feeling is that he acted a bit precipitously in clearing the trees. People are somewhat disappointed that he didn”t follow procedure.”
Marx added: “Rather than seeking the proper channels and permits, he hired someone to cut them down. He’’s generally a good neighbor. It was out of character.”
Another local resident said: “This is a town where money isn”t an issue. What matters are good manners and caring about the community. People have been supportive of him, but I”m not sure what he was thinking.”
