Glebe man charged after allegedly sexually abusing two teenagers in Sydney

A middle-aged man accused of grooming and sexually assaulting two teenagers he met at a fast-food restaurant remains in custody despite expressing concerns about his safety behind bars.

David Stuart Denton faces 21 child abuse and drug-related charges following his alleged sexual assaults on a boy and girl, both aged 15, in Sydney.

Police said the 55-year-old approached the two teenagers in April 2021 at a fast food restaurant on George St, in the city centre.

The teens did not know the man, but visited his home in Ultimo later that day, where they were allegedly sexually assaulted.

Police allege that the boy was sexually assaulted on another occasion later that year.

Magistrate Ian Guy took the Glebe man into custody on Thursday despite pleading bail on his security concerns over the charges.

“It’s the first time you’ve been in custody (and you) have raised the issue of… the risk of harm,” Guy told Denton.

“I have no doubt there are risks, but that is a matter for the detention officials.”

Mr Guy refused the 55-year bail despite an offer of security.

Denton, who appeared before the Downing Center local court via video link, began to cry and splutter as the magistrate delivered his decision.

Detectives began their investigation into the alleged assaults in June 2022 and arrested Denton at a home in Glebe on Wednesday morning.

During a house search, the police seized several electronic devices and also found an amount of illegal drugs.

Denton was charged with nine counts of aggravated sexual intercourse with a child, as well as grooming and drug deliveries.

1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)

National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service 1800 211 028