Intruder Who Declared Himself 'the King' at St James's Palace Spared Immediate Custody
Andrew Parrott, a 57-year-old man from Luton, has been given a suspended prison sentence after being caught trespassing on the protected grounds of St James's Palace in London. The incident occurred on June 21, 2025, when Parrott was observed on CCTV roaming the royal residence before his arrest.
Royal Trespass and Bizarre Claim
Prosecutor Thomas Heslop informed Westminster Magistrates Court that when police officers confronted Parrott on the palace grounds, he responded by announcing he was 'the King'. St James's Palace serves as the London home for several members of the royal family, including Princess Anne, Princess Alexandra, and Princess Beatrice. As a designated protected site, trespassing there constitutes a criminal offence under UK law, aimed at safeguarding national security and the royal family.
Parrott had previously admitted to trespassing on a protected site. During his court appearance, he represented himself, wearing black attire, and explained that he had been unable to apply for legal aid in time. When questioned about his claim to be the monarch, Parrott stated he was 'confused' and 'unaware of his actions' at the time.
Judge's Stern Warning and Sentencing
District Judge Sam Goozee presided over the case, emphasising the seriousness of the offence. He told Parrott, 'You need to understand trespassing on this site is a very serious offence. Protected sites are there to protect our national security, the government, and in this case, the royal family.' The judge pressed Parrott three times for his reasons for wanting access to the royal grounds.
Parrott revealed that he had once lived in a 'property of significant heritage' and had knocked on the palace door in the past. When Judge Goozee asked why he would do such a thing, Parrott simply replied, 'Curiosity.' He maintained that it was a 'one-off incident' with 'no criminal intent'. However, the judge countered, 'It was criminal, your intention to find a door, meaning you were trying to gain access.' He expressed concern that curiosity was the only explanation provided for Parrott's actions.
Previous Convictions and Final Ruling
The court noted that Parrott is no longer homeless and has a history of prior convictions. These include two counts of breaching a restraining order in 2023 and one count of harassment in 2022. Taking these factors into account, Judge Goozee handed down a 12-month suspended prison sentence along with an £85 fine. This decision means Parrott will avoid immediate jail time unless he reoffends during the suspension period.
The case highlights the stringent security measures surrounding royal residences and the legal consequences for breaching them, even in instances where defendants offer unusual explanations for their behaviour.
