Melbourne, Australia – Former “Home and Away” actor Orpheus Pledger is facing serious allegations of assaulting a woman in Melbourne, with newly-released CCTV footage purportedly capturing the incident. Pledger, who did not attend his bail hearing at court last night, left Royal Melbourne Hospital against medical advice, resulting in a delay in the legal proceedings. The actor’s absence was due to a mental health assessment ordered by the court.
Pledger stands accused of injuring and unlawfully assaulting a woman, leading to his remand since March 27 after bail was denied. His lawyer disclosed that he had left the hospital while awaiting assessment, adding a layer of complexity to his legal situation. The alleged assault reportedly transpired on March 25, resulting in the woman sustaining injuries that required medical attention.
During the bail application process, concerns were raised about the potential risk Pledger poses to the public and the alleged victim, as well as his need for mental health and substance abuse support. The court reviewed evidence, including the CCTV footage depicting the assault, which Magistrate Justin Foster described as showing Pledger stomping on the woman’s head. The alleged match between the woman’s injuries and Pledger’s footwear further complicates the case.
Court documents suggest Pledger poses a significant risk of further harm to the alleged victim, while his lawyer argues for considerations of his mental well-being if kept in custody. Despite efforts to secure treatment at Royal Melbourne Hospital, the actor’s bail was ultimately revoked, with a revised hearing scheduled for May 10. Pledger’s history in the entertainment industry, from early roles to his recent appearances, adds a layer of complexity to the unfolding legal proceedings.
Pledger’s on-screen presence has spanned multiple shows, with his tenure on “Home and Away” solidifying his reputation before his abrupt departure from “SAS Australia” due to concerns over his behavior. The case continues to draw attention due to the serious nature of the allegations, highlighting the complexities of addressing mental health and substance abuse in legal contexts. As the legal process unfolds, the broader implications of the case on Pledger’s career and personal life remain uncertain, awaiting further developments in the coming weeks.