NSW Police have arrested a man who allegedly broke into the ABC’s compound in Sydney and indecently assaulted Triple J lunchtime presenter Gen Fricker after stalking her for several months prior.
The frightening incident occurred last Wednesday, September 5th. Police allege that the man, identified as 31-year-old Kieren Gallagher, forced his way into the secure ABC building in Ultimo by tailgating a staffer who scanned in through the security gates. From there, Gallagher is alleged to have made his way into the Triple J studios area, where he then grabbed and indecently assaulted Fricker before fleeing the building after security was called in.
Following a public plea for information Gallagher, of no fixed address, was arrested on Monday by police while sleeping rough at Central Station. He was subsequently charged with stalking, entering enclosed lands without permission, and one count of common assault.
It’s alleged that Gallagher had been stalking Fricker since at least May. Court documents detail that he had been doing so with the intent to cause serious physical and/or emotional harm to the Triple J presenter.
In response, the ABC has beefed up security at the Ultimo facility, urging staff to take precaution when entering the building so as not to allow tailgaters to gain unlawful access to the premises. A statement from the ABC issued to media asserts that all affected personnel are receiving the full support of the broadcaster.
There was a security incident at the ABC Ultimo Centre last week. A man has been arrested and the matter is now before the court.
All affected employees are receiving support and have asked for privacy.
The security and safety of our employees is of paramount importance and the ABC is reviewing the incident.
A day prior to the alleged assault, police arrested Gallagher at Sutherland Station and charged with conducting himself in an offensive manner after a string of incidents were captured on CCTV.
Fricker has yet to issue public comment on the incident and continues to work as normal, appearing on Channel Ten‘s Have You Been Paying Attention? for the first time last night, as well as keeping a string of planned stand-up gigs across the weekend.
Gallagher appeared in Central Local Court on Monday via video link, and is now being assessed under the Mental Health Act.
He will appear in court again at an undisclosed later date.
