Hey Dad! star charged in Sydney

Former Hey Dad! star Robert Hughes was charged with 11 offences including sexual intercourse without consent and aggravated indecent assault at Sydney Police Centre this morning.

The 64-year-old landed at Sydney Airport just before 7.30am on Thursday morning, flanked by NSW Police officers who had escorted him on Qantas flight QF2 after being extradited from the UK.

Lawyer Greg Walsh said he was hopeful Hughes would be granted bail to be reunited with wife, agent Robyn Gardiner.

”It’s taken its toll on him,” Mr Walsh told reporters outside Sydney Police Centre.

”Any human being in this position, facing very serious charges would obviously be under considerable pressure.

”He’s had a very long trip, and he’s obviously quite anxious.

”The main anxiety he’s got is his freedom, and in particular, being reunited with his wife.”

Detective Superintendent Kerlatec said all the victims were pleased with the progress, relating to alleged offences between 1984 and 1990.

“This investigation commenced in 2010. There have been in excess of 200 people interviewed with a team of people five and seven continually working on the matter,” he said this morning.

“We have been in close contact with all victims throughout this time. They have been made fully aware of the progress. We have been in detailed consultation with the office of the DPP, which was assisting us.”

Hughes exercised his right not to be interviewed by police and denied the allegations against him.

”He denies his guilt,” Walsh said. ”He will strenuously assert his innocence.”

Source: The Australian, The Age, ABC