A 63-year-old Sydney teacher has been refused bail after being accused of conspiring to drug and sexually assault two minors, with a magistrate branding the alleged evidence as 'graphic' and 'revolting'.
'Abhorrent' Allegations Lead to Bail Refusal
Peter James Adam, a teacher at International Grammar School in inner Sydney, was arrested in Bondi on Wednesday. He appeared via videolink from Surry Hills police station on Thursday after being charged with two counts of incitement to commit aggravated sexual assault in company and using a carriage service to solicit child abuse material.
Police prosecutors told Waverley Local Court that the alleged facts were 'abhorrent and concerning'. They stated that Adam had actively plotted with a co-accused, Todd Anthony Soulas, 35, from June 2024 to July 2025. The plan allegedly involved drugging the two children so they could be sexually assaulted.
Graphic Messages and AI Abuse Material
In reading excerpts of the alleged conversations, Magistrate Margaret Quinn said they contained 'fairly revolting sort of messages I have to say - graphic'. Prosecutors revealed Adam had discussed 'pimping' out a young boy for money and sending a girl's underwear to Soulas.
The court heard that Adam had taken photos of both children in vulnerable positions. It was further alleged that Soulas planned to use artificial intelligence to create child abuse material. In one exchange about involving a girl, Soulas allegedly said: 'Well, that's fine, we can drug her... We can record her having sex with a dog and own her anonymously.'
Strong Prosecution Case Seals Decision
Prosecutors strongly opposed bail, arguing Adam posed a danger to the alleged victims and the community and could interfere with witnesses. His Legal Aid solicitor, Julian Balloot, proposed strict conditions including daily police reporting and surrendering his passport.
However, Magistrate Quinn refused release, citing the 'exceedingly strong' case and an unacceptable risk. Adam, who did not speak, bowed his head as the decision was handed down. His wife, Genet Erickson-Adam, a deputy head at Cranbrook School, listened to the virtual hearing.
The school has moved swiftly, with an International Grammar School spokeswoman confirming Adam had been stood down. 'The safety of IGS students remains the school's highest priority,' she said. Social media posts celebrating World Teacher's Day were edited to remove his name and photo.
Police uncovered the plot after seizing three mobile phones from Soulas' home prior to his arrest in September. Soulas faces 23 charges, including aggravated sexual assault of a child and possessing bestiality material. He remains on remand.
Adam is next due to appear at Waverley Local Court on March 12. Soulas will face Burwood Local Court on February 4.
