A decorated air force officer known for his sharpshooting skills and passion for firearms has received a sentence of two years less a day of house arrest for unlawfully bringing eight guns into Canada.
Major Kendrick Barling, who admitted guilt in May, had concealed gun components, including some lacking serial numbers, among his personal belongings when returning to Canada in August 2023. Initially facing 29 firearm-related charges from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Barling’s sentencing at Brockville Superior Court emphasized his military service and personal character.
Assistant Crown attorney Will Webber described Barling as a valuable member of society who acknowledged his wrongdoing despite his usual sound judgment. Defense lawyer Steven Edgley also highlighted Barling’s exceptional background. The court-approved sentence, proposed jointly by the legal teams, includes a condition barring Barling from possessing firearms except for military duties to safeguard his job.
While Justice Brian Abrams expressed some leniency towards Barling, he underscored the severity of illegally importing restricted weapons due to Barling’s extensive expertise. The judge noted the significant repercussions Barling had already faced, such as losing his firearms collection and jeopardizing his military career.
Barling, recognized for his marksmanship with numerous awards, previously imported firearms while working in the U.S. and failed to declare all the weapons upon reentering Canada. The CBSA discovered several gun components hidden among his belongings, which could be assembled into functional firearms.
Despite lacking evidence of criminal intent, Barling’s actions were deemed serious. Justice Abrams acknowledged Barling’s dedicated service over three decades, urging military authorities to consider his remorse and exemplary career in any future decisions.
The Canadian Armed Forces initiated an administrative review of Barling’s conduct following the sentencing, withholding further details until the investigation’s completion.
