Gerard Vamadevan, 57, has been granted bail by Sydney Local Court despite facing charges that include procuring a child for prostitution and stalking. Mr. Vamadevan was arrested at his inner-western Sydney home following a police investigation initiated in November.
Gerard Vamadevan, 57, has been granted bail by Sydney Local Court despite facing charges that include procuring a child for prostitution and stalking.
Charges and Investigation
Police began their investigation after receiving reports that Mr. Vamadevan had been posing as a casting agent for an international company and creating false documents. On Friday, police raided his Lewisham residence, seizing documents and electronic items, leading to his arrest and subsequent charges.
Mr. Vamadevan faces 11 charges, which include:
- One count of procuring a child for prostitution.
- One count of stalking or intimidating with intent to cause fear or physical harm.
- Six counts of possessing identification information with intent to commit an indictable offense.
- Three counts of dealing with identification information to commit an indictable offense.
At the time of these alleged offenses, Mr. Vamadevan was serving a Recognizance Release Order under the Commonwealth Crimes Act 1914.
Court Proceedings and Bail Decision
In court, Mr. Vamadevan claimed he posed as a Disney executive to seek companionship due to loneliness, stating he only bought coffee and dinner for individuals.
He requested bail to continue accessing mental health support, citing solitude as a primary trigger for past offenses, which he self-medicated with alcohol.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Candice Chapman opposed bail, arguing that no conditions could guarantee he would not re-offend. However, Magistrate Robert Cook granted bail with strict conditions, including daily reporting to police and restricting internet use to work-related activities.
Mr. Vamadevan intends to plead not guilty to the charges and is scheduled to appear next in Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday, February 5.