A man known as a ‘fake admiral’ has confessed to crashing a ceremony on Remembrance Sunday while dressed in full navy uniform.
Jonathan Carley, aged 64 and hailing from the Harlech area in Gwynedd, Wales, acknowledged that he had posed as an admiral by donning the uniform during the event. He was observed saluting the war memorial as wreaths were being laid before an investigation was initiated.
Photos circulated widely on social media depicted the individual in uniform adorned with 12 medals resembling those of a high-ranking navy official. The Royal Navy condemned the impersonation of a naval officer as “disrespectful to veterans.”
He was subsequently charged with unauthorized wear of uniform/dress bearing the insignia of His Majesty’s Forces.
The ‘fake admiral’ was also spotted wearing the Distinguished Service Order, an honor typically conferred upon infantry officers. No active Royal Navy personnel have received the DSO, which has not been awarded for over three decades.
Mr. Carley appeared in Llandudno Magistrates’ Court early today and entered a guilty plea. Like many others today, he encountered challenging weather conditions en route to court due to snow and ice. His legal counsel requested additional time to confer with him prior to the hearing, a request that was granted by District Judge Gwyn Jones.
Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan, in response to the decision to press charges, stated: “We recognize that this incident has generated significant public unease, especially given its timing on Remembrance Sunday.
“Following the reports received by North Wales Police, officers acted promptly to effect an arrest and proceed with legal action.
“We advise the public to refrain from speculating online and sharing any content that could jeopardize future court proceedings.”
Carley was fined after admitting to the offense. The district judge imposed a £500 fine on him and instructed him to cover total costs amounting to £285.
During sentencing, District Judge Gwyn Jones remarked that Carley had intended to deceive the marshals and had caused anguish to the families of servicemen with his actions.
The judge expressed disappointment, stating that it was regrettable that Carley had opted for such a foolish course of action on Remembrance Sunday, surprising those who know him.