Former Home and Away star Orpheus Pledger has reportedly escaped police custody while undergoing a mental health assessment at the Royal Melbourne Hospital. The 30-year-old actor was detained on March 25 for allegedly attacking a woman and was granted permission to seek mental health treatment. However, after being escorted to the hospital by police, Pledger allegedly waited six hours before leaving the premises in violation of his bail conditions. Police have issued a warrant for his arrest, and a search operation is underway.
Pledger, who is best known for his role as Mason Morgan in Home and Away from 2016 to 2019, was also charged with unlawful assault after allegedly dragging a woman to the ground by her hair and stamping on her head. Footage released by the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday appeared to show the incident.
The woman was reportedly taken to the hospital with bruising to her cheek and neck and small lacerations to her cheek. Pledger’s lawyer reportedly told the court that his client could not be contacted, and Magistrate Justin Foster expressed frustration at the situation, saying that he would never make such an order again.
A police spokesperson confirmed that Pledger is still at large, and anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
