Man charged with stalking ‘after walking into the ABC headquarters, grabbed a woman and kissed her’ 

A 31-year-old man has been charged with stalking and assault after he allegedly walked into the ABC’s Sydney headquarters, grabbed a woman and kissed her.

At 2.30pm on September 5, Kieren Gallagher allegedly entered the Harris Street office and walked through the building before approaching a female staff member.

Police were told he kissed her and ran away, also causing a radio show to go off-air. 

Fairfax media have reported that the woman assaulted is Triple J presenter and comedian Gen Fricker.

A 31-year-old man has been charged with stalking and assault after he allegedly walked into the ABC’s Sydney headquarters, grabbed a woman and kissed her 

Fairfax media have reported that the woman assaulted is Triple J presenter and comedian Gen Fricker (pictured)

‘The man grabbed the woman and kissed her. He fled the office after security was alerted. Officers from Sydney City area command were notified and commenced an investigation,’ an earlier statement released by police said.

The intruder was apparently seen in the kitchen near the promotions department and also made his way past a second security barricade to the radio studios. 

The incident caused one network to stop its live broadcast and switch to pre-recorded material, according to The Australian. 

The Ultimo ABC headquarters is protected by security since June last year and visitors must sign in and state who they are visiting.

Previously the foyer was used as a thoroughfare by TAFE and University of Technology students.

It is understood the man was able to gain access by following an employee through security.

Gallagher appeared before Central Local Court on Monday charged with stalking and intimidation with intent to cause fear as well as trespassing and common assault.

Gallagher appeared before Central Local Court on Monday charged with stalking and intimidation with intent to cause fear as well as trespassing and common assault

The Ultimo ABC headquarters is protected by security since June last year and visitors must sign in and state who they are visiting 

The 31-year-old was detained while his mental health is assessed.

He ‘appears to have significant mental health issues’ and ‘became abusive’ while appearing via video link, court documents reveal.

In an email to staff Gaven Morris, director of news, said there would be more security guards and said the ABC is committed to ensuring staff safety.

He said: ‘There may be increased checks on IDs, security attention at all building entry points and escalated physical security improvement works,” the email read.

‘We are supporting our colleagues directly affected by this incident.’  

Daily Mail Australia has contacted the ABC for comment. 

Previously the foyer was used as a thoroughfare by TAFE and University of Technology students 

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