Website defacement is an old story that happens daily, worldwide. If anyone thinks that web-vandals are on the rise, It's only because the media is reporting them more often.
Computers are a tool. Nothing more. They can be used for good or evil. Just as a hammer can be used to drive a nail into wood, it can also break someones window.
While the reasoning for the attack on the Durham Police website was a bit odd. I guess that's one way to find security holes in your system. Although a bit damaging to ones pride. ;)

-Cheers

Well, it beats The Register, who actually link to a site with a virus on it.

Muppets.

Why no screen shots or links? :(