Bondi Mass Shooting: Man Pleads Not Guilty to Theft from Victim
A 35-year-old man has pleaded not guilty to charges that he stole camera equipment from a victim of the Bondi Beach mass shooting in December.
Court Appearance and Charges
Danny James Ridley appeared in Waverley Local Court on Wednesday, where he entered not guilty pleas to seven charges.
The charges include stealing photographic gear valued at $3,500 from Peter Meagher, a 61-year-old retired police officer and freelance photographer who was among those killed in the attack. Additional charges against Ridley include drug and weapon offences. Police allege he pawned the camera equipment for $800.
Police allege Ridley pawned the camera equipment for $800.
Details of the Incident
The shooting occurred on December 14 during a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach. A gunman opened fire on the crowd, killing 15 people. Reports differ on the number of perpetrators: some sources state a single gunman, while one source reports two gunmen. Naveed Akram has been charged with murder and terrorism offences in connection with the attack.
Ridley was present at the event as a photographer before the shooting began. He is accused of using the ensuing chaos to steal Meagher's camera equipment.
Police Investigation and Evidence
On April 10, police executed a search warrant at a residence in Marayong, in Sydney's north-western suburbs. During the search, officers seized a camera, handcuffs, electronic devices, and a small amount of white crystal powder.
An SD card containing photographs taken by Meagher at the Hanukkah event before his death has been recovered. The memory card was reportedly seized during the search of Ridley's home.
Victim's Background
Peter Meagher was a retired New South Wales police officer who served for 35 years. His family stated he was killed while pursuing his passion for photography. His widow, Virginia, issued a public appeal in March 2024 for information about the missing camera.
Legal Proceedings
Ridley was granted strict conditional bail. He is scheduled to appear before Blacktown Local Court in June 2024.