‘Fake Admiral’ pleads guilty to dressing in Navy uniform for Remembrance Sunday service
A man has pleaded guilty to posing as an admiral at a Remembrance Sunday event in North Wales.
Jonathan Carley attended a wreath-laying ceremony in Llandudno on 9 November wearing a uniform bearing the insignia of Her Majesty’s Forces, without permission.
The 64-year-old from Harlech was arrested after he was seen wearing “the uniform and medals of a high-ranking naval officer” and his image went viral.
Concerns were raised by other former and serving staff attending Llandudno Borough Council, which organized the commemoration event, confirmed that no senior figures would be attending the ceremony.
He later told police that his naval uniform was legally issued to him when he was a student, but that he had his rear admiral’s rings cut to him by a tailor and that he bought the medal online.
He pleaded guilty at his hearing at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court and was fined £500 and ordered to pay £85 in prosecution costs and a surcharge of £200.
District Judge Gwyn Jones said: “It’s a sad situation for you to choose to do this on a very difficult day for so many people.”
Prosecutor Jams Neary said Carley wore medals, including for service in Iraq and Syria, at the “well-attended” ceremony and approached organizers to introduce herself.
“The defendant was allowed to lay a wreath. He did so, saluted and stood among other dignitaries.”
His photo later went viral on social media, and when he was arrested on November 14 he told police: “I’ve been waiting for you.”
In the interview, he told police he wanted a sense of “belonging and validation.”
At the time, Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan said: “We understand that this incident has caused serious public concern, particularly given that it occurred on Remembrance Sunday.
“In response to reports made to North Wales Police, officers responded quickly to make arrests and progress charges.
“We urge the public to refrain from online speculation and refrain from sharing any content that could jeopardize future court proceedings.”
