Man to plead not guilty after allegedly posing as Disney casting agent
A 57-year-old Sydney man who allegedly posed as a Disney casting executive to lure young actors for sexual acts has indicated he will plead not guilty to all charges. Gerard Vamadevan appeared at Sydney Local Court on Saturday following his arrest at a Lewisham property in the city's inner-west.
Police investigation and raid details
New South Wales police launched an investigation in November 2025 following reports that a man had falsified documents and impersonated a casting agent for an international entertainment company. Authorities allege he offered fraudulent television and film opportunities in exchange for sexual activity with aspiring performers.
Officers executed a search warrant at a Lewisham residence around 9am on Friday, seizing documentation and electronic devices as evidence. The subsequent arrest led to Vamadevan being charged with eleven separate offences.
Serious charges laid against accused
The charges include one count each of procuring a child for prostitution, and stalking or intimidating with intent to cause fear or physical harm. Additionally, Vamadevan faces six counts of possessing identification information with intention to commit indictable offences, and three counts of dealing with identification information to facilitate criminal activities.
During Saturday's court appearance, Magistrate Robert Cook noted that Vamadevan was subject to a Recognisance Release Order under the Commonwealth Crimes Act 1914 at the time of the alleged offences. This legislation allows individuals who plead guilty or are found guilty of Commonwealth offences to avoid prison while still receiving criminal convictions, provided they comply with strict conditions.
Defendant claims loneliness motivated actions
Vamadevan told the court he pretended to be a Disney executive because he was "lonely" and sought companionship. According to ABC News reports, he stated: "All I did with them [the alleged victims] was bought them coffee and shouted them dinner. I was lonely and I wanted company, I have three who remain friends."
The defendant argued for bail, claiming he needed access to mental health support services. "I need to be of a clear, sound mind, my primary trigger is solitude. I used to drink to self-medicate and that's when I caused the offences," he told the court.
Bail granted with strict conditions
Police prosecutor Sergeant Candice Chapman opposed bail, arguing that no conditions could guarantee Vamadevan would not reoffend. Despite these objections, Magistrate Cook granted bail with stringent requirements.
The bail conditions include daily reporting to police and a prohibition on internet use except for work-related purposes. These measures aim to monitor the defendant's activities and restrict potential contact with alleged victims or new targets.
Vamadevan confirmed he would be entering not guilty pleas at his next court appearance. The case has been adjourned to Downing Centre Local Court, where proceedings will continue on February 5.
