A man was arrested at gunpoint in Cheltenham after entering a secure GCHQ car park, admitting unauthorized entry and theft charges.
Dad Arrested at GCHQ Car Park
A dad was seized at gunpoint after entering a GCHQ car park.
Terence White, 48, is a serial offender. He set off to buy alcohol when he took a prohibited shortcut.
Police arrested him while carrying guns and Tasers at the staff car park for the spy center in Cheltenham in June.
Legal Status of GCHQ Site
The GCHQ site and its external car parks are designated as a prohibited place by the Secretary of State under the National Security Act 2023. It is a criminal offense to enter without authorization.
Admission of Guilt
White admitted to unauthorized entry, a series of thefts, and breaches of a criminal behavior order.
His lawyer, Charlotte Robinson, told Cheltenham magistrates’ court that White is a long-term drink and drugs addict.
She stated, “He just walked in and sat in the corner of the car park. He was not trying to enter a building.”
Robinson added, “Mr. White is impulsive and a long-term addict. He is not asking for a free pass here. He knows he has messed up. He is asking that you give him a chance.”
Sentencing
White received a 20-week jail term, which is suspended for 18 months. He must also complete a six-month drug rehabilitation course.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Terence White |
| Age | 48 |
| Location | Cheltenham |
| Incident Date | June |
| Sentence | 20 weeks (suspended for 18 months) |
| Rehabilitation Course | 6 months |
