A man impersonating an admiral confidently greeted police with “I’ve been expecting you” after confessing to wearing a naval uniform without authorization during a Remembrance Sunday event, a court revealed today. Jonathan Carley, 65, residing in Harlech, Gwynedd, explained that he sought a feeling of inclusion by donning the uniform. However, magistrates in Llandudno disapproved of his actions, charging him for wearing a uniform bearing the mark of His Majesty’s Forces without permission.
Carley was reported to have worn the unauthorized uniform at the Remembrance Sunday event in Llandudno on November 9. He claimed to police that the naval attire was legitimately issued to him during his time in the cadets. Nonetheless, he had embellished the uniform by adding rear admiral rings through a tailor and purchasing medals online.
District Judge Gwyn Jones imposed a fine of £500 on Carley, along with an additional payment of £85 for prosecution costs and a £200 surcharge. Judge Jones expressed disappointment, stating, “It’s a regrettable choice that you made on a day of significance for many.” During the well-attended service, Carley, adorned with medals including those for service in Iraq and Syria, mingled with organizers after laying a wreath, saluting, and standing among other dignitaries.
Following the event, Carley’s image gained traction on social media, leading to his arrest on November 14, where he greeted the police with the now-infamous phrase, “I’ve been expecting you.” In interviews with law enforcement, Carley confessed to seeking a sense of “belonging and affirmation.” Reports indicate that Carley’s sole military experience was a period in the combined cadet force during his teaching tenure at Cheltenham and Shiplake Colleges.
Public records in the London Gazette confirm Carley’s commission into the reserves as a 2nd Lt (on Probation) in July 1991, indicating the lowest officer rank he held. Additionally, Carley had falsely claimed to have pursued studies at prestigious institutions like Oxford University and Harvard before his teaching stint at Eton, a renowned school attended by notable figures like Princes William and Harry, Boris Johnson, and David Cameron. Police initiated investigations following the circulation of his photo on social media.
