Jonathan Carley, 64, is accused of wearing uniform bearing the mark of His Majesty’s Forces without permission as he today appeared at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court
A ‘fake admiral’ accused of gatecrashing a wreath-laying ceremony on Remembrance Sunday has appeared in court.
Jonathan Carley, 64, from the Harlech region in Gwynedd, Wales, has been accused of imitating an admiral by wearing the uniform during the service. An individual was seen saluting the war memorial as the wreaths were being laid on the ground before an investigation was launched.
Images widely circulated on social media appearing to show a man wearing the uniform and 12 medals of a high-ranking navy officer. The Royal Navy said masquerading as a naval officer was “insulting to veterans”.
He was subsequently charged with wearing uniform/dress bearing the mark of His Majesty’s Forces without permission.
The alleged ‘fake admiral’ was also seen displaying the Distinguished Service Order, a decoration typically bestowed upon infantry officers. No active Royal Navy serviceperson has been granted the DSO, and it has not been awarded for more than 30 years.
Today, Mr Carley appeared at Llandudno Magistrates’ Court.
Following the decision to charge the man, Chief Inspector Trystan Bevan said: “We understand that this incident has caused significant public concern, particularly given its occurrence on Remembrance Sunday.
“In response to the reports made to North Wales Police, officers have responded swiftly to make an arrest and proceed with charges.
“We urge members of the public to avoid online speculation and to refrain from sharing any content that could compromise future court proceedings.”
