A 65-year-old man has been convicted and fined after he admitted to wearing the uniform of a senior Royal Navy admiral without permission during a solemn Remembrance Sunday commemoration.
Court hears details of unauthorised uniform
Jonathan Carley, from Harlech in Gwynedd, appeared at Llandudno Magistrates' Court on Monday, 5 January 2026. He pleaded guilty to the charge of wearing a uniform or dress bearing the mark of His Majesty's Forces without the necessary permission.
The court heard that Carley was arrested after photographs of him wearing the high-ranking naval uniform were circulated online. The images were taken during a Remembrance Sunday event, a day of national reflection for those who lost their lives in conflict.
Tailor-added insignia and online medals
During the police investigation, Carley stated that the core naval uniform had been legitimately issued to him during his time in the cadets. However, he confessed to having a tailor add the distinctive rings of a rear admiral to the sleeves. He also admitted to purchasing various medals online to complete the impersonation.
District Judge Gwyn Jones presided over the case and did not mince his words when passing sentence. He told Carley that his actions were "a sad reflection upon you that you chose to do such a thing on a very difficult day for so many."
Financial penalty imposed by court
The court imposed a total financial penalty on Carley for the offence. He was ordered to pay:
- A fine of £500.
- £85 in costs towards the prosecution.
- A victim surcharge of £200.
The case highlights the legal and cultural seriousness with which the UK treats the unauthorised use of military insignia, particularly on a day of such profound national significance as Remembrance Sunday.
