A 65-year-old man has been fined after admitting to impersonating a Navy admiral at a Remembrance Sunday event in Llandudno. Jonathan Carley was charged with unlawfully wearing military uniform, specifically that of a high-ranking officer.
Incident Overview
Carley appeared in Llandudno Magistrates’ Court after being found in the uniform of a Rear Admiral, one of the top ranks in the Royal Navy. He was caught wearing this attire during a solemn ceremony held in November to honor fallen soldiers.
Circumstances of the Event
The event attracted hundreds of attendees who gathered at a war memorial to pay respects. Carley was seen walking in formation and laying a wreath. However, concerns were raised when serving and former military personnel recognized discrepancies in his attire.
- Event Location: Llandudno
- Exact Date: November (Remembrance Sunday)
- Position Impersonated: Rear Admiral
Legal Proceedings
At the court, Carley faced a charge under the Uniforms Act of 1894. This law prohibits unauthorized personnel from wearing military uniforms. He was fined £500 and ordered to cover court costs and a surcharge totaling £285.
Details of the Charge
- Charge: Wearing military uniform without permission
- Fines: £500
- Additional Costs: £285
Motivation Behind the Act
During police questioning, Carley claimed he sought a sense of belonging. He indicated that the uniform was originally issued to him during his cadet days and added the rank insignia and medals obtained online.
Carley expressed in his interview that he thought it was a harmless act, yet the evidence painted a different picture. Photos of him at the event later circulated on social media, further highlighting the seriousness of his impersonation.
Community Reaction
The Llandudno Town Council, the event organizers, confirmed that no officers of the Admiral rank were scheduled to attend. This discrepancy raised alarm among attendees and community members alike.
Conclusion
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of properly respecting military attire and the serious consequences that can arise from impersonation in this context.
