Australian actor absconds; detained after manhunt
Orpheus Pledger, a renowned Australian actor known for his role in the soap opera Home and Away, was recently detained by law enforcement following a public search. His arrest came after he failed to appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Tuesday, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant. Previously charged with four counts of assault, Pledger had been granted bail on Monday under the condition that he would return to court the next day.
Pledger disappeared during a mandatory medical evaluation
Pledger disappeared during a mandatory medical evaluation on Monday evening, an event local media has labeled as "involuntary mental health care." Following his sudden disappearance, the Melbourne Police requested public assistance to locate him, highlighting that Pledger frequently visited the Northcote district in inner Melbourne. The details surrounding his arrest have not been disclosed by the Victoria Police.
Actor allegedly followed woman in Melbourne, attacked her from behind
The assault charges against Pledger originate from an incident reportedly captured on a motion-activated camera. Australian media reports suggest the footage shows Pledger following a woman in Melbourne before attacking her from behind. The court has now scheduled Pledger's appearance for May 10. His acting career includes roles in Neighbours and Silversun, but he is best known for his portrayal of Mason Morgan in Home and Away from 2016 to 2019.
Agent said Pledger has been let down by system
Craig McMahon, Pledger's agent, expressed shock at the allegations against his client. In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, McMahon revealed he hadn't seen Pledger for over a week and acknowledged that the actor had been dealing with "long-term mental health issues." Speaking to The Melbourne Age, McMahon stated, "I have no doubt Orpheus has been completely let down by the system."
