A man who posed as a senior naval officer at a Remembrance Sunday event told police 'I've been expecting you' when they arrived to arrest him, a court has heard.
Unlawful Uniform at Solemn Event
Jonathan Carley, 65, from Harlech in Gwynedd, appeared before magistrates in Llandudno charged with wearing a uniform bearing the mark of His Majesty's Forces without permission. The court was told he wore the elaborate naval outfit to the well-attended service in Llandudno on November 9.
Carley, who claimed he sought a 'sense of belonging and affirmation', approached organisers at the event. He was wearing medals, including ones for service in Iraq and Syria, and introduced himself. As a result, he was permitted to lay a wreath, salute, and stand among other dignitaries.
Tailored Deception and Viral Photograph
The prosecution, led by James Neary, detailed how Carley's deception was constructed. While he told police the uniform was legitimately issued during his time in the cadets, he had subsequently taken it to a tailor to have rear admiral rings added. He also purchased medals online to complete the look.
A photograph of Carley in the uniform at the event later went viral on social media, prompting an investigation. Police checks revealed his military service was limited to a commission as a 2nd Lieutenant (on Probation) in the reserves in July 1991, and a stint in the combined cadet force while teaching. He had also made claims about studying at Oxford and Harvard and teaching at Eton.
Condemnation and Financial Penalty
District Judge Gwyn Jones fined Carley £500 and ordered him to pay £85 in prosecution costs plus a £200 surcharge. Passing sentence, Judge Jones said: "It's a sad reflection upon you that you chose to do such a thing on a very difficult day for so many."
Carley was arrested on November 14, at which point he made his now-noteworthy remark to officers. The case highlights the serious view taken by the courts of unlawfully impersonating military personnel, particularly on a day of national remembrance.
