A proficient air force officer with exceptional marksmanship skills and a passion for gun collection has received a sentence of two years less a day of house arrest for unlawfully bringing in eight firearms. Major Kendrick Barling, who admitted his guilt in May, concealed gun components, including some lacking serial numbers, with his personal belongings when he returned to Canada in August 2023.
Initially facing 29 firearm-related charges from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), discussion during his sentencing at Brockville Superior Court emphasized Barling’s military service and character. Assistant Crown attorney Will Webber described Barling as an outstanding contributor to society who acknowledged his wrongdoing, attributing the offense to a misjudgment by an otherwise intelligent and decisive individual.
Defense lawyer Steven Edgley echoed similar sentiments about Barling’s exemplary background. The agreed-upon sentence, which prohibits Barling from owning weapons except for military duties, was to prevent jeopardizing his job as a 49-year-old officer. While the judge recognized the severity of illegally importing restricted firearms, he acknowledged the significant repercussions Barling had already faced, such as losing his firearms collection and endangering his military career.
According to the disclosed facts, Barling brought guns with him to the U.S. during his NORAD assignment and acquired additional firearms during his tenure there. The CBSA discovered firearm components hidden among Barling’s clothing and shoes, which were easily assembled into functional handguns on-site. Despite the absence of intentions to supply criminals or engage in sales, Barling’s actions were deemed unlawful.
Barling’s prestigious achievements as a top rifle marksman in the Canadian Armed Forces were noted during the proceedings. Recognized with multiple medals for his marksmanship skills, including the Queen’s Medal for Champion Shot four times, Barling’s decades-long service to Canada, particularly in challenging deployments like Afghanistan, was highlighted as a significant contribution.
Following the sentencing, Justice Abrams emphasized that Barling’s dedication and sacrifice during his military service should not be disregarded. He expressed hope that future decisions regarding Barling’s career would consider his acceptance of responsibility and his extensive and commendable service to the country. The Canadian Armed Forces confirmed an ongoing administrative review of Barling’s conduct without further details provided during the investigation period.