Simon Monteiro, a former model and convicted rapist, has been charged with stalking a woman in a New South Wales court building, prompting renewed discussions about the enforcement of protective orders.
At a Glance
- Monteiro was previously convicted of rape and threats against a partner
- New charges stem from alleged stalking inside a courthouse
- Incident occurred during unrelated legal proceedings in Hornsby Local Court
- Police allege he breached a court order
- Bail was denied; case returns to court in Parramatta
Incident Details
Police allege that on August 13, 2025, Monteiro sat close to and stared at a woman inside Hornsby Local Court, in violation of an existing protective order. The woman, who was not involved in the case being heard, reported feeling intimidated and unsafe.
The NSW Police State Crime Command’s Sex Crimes Squad arrested Monteiro later that day. According to court documents, officers believe his actions were deliberate and designed to cause distress. The alleged breach falls under laws prohibiting intimidation and harassment, especially in violation of active court orders.
Read more: ‘Playboy rapist’ Simon Monteiro faces new stalking charges · Daily Telegraph
Legal Background
Monteiro, 58, has a long criminal history, most notably a conviction for the rape and physical assault of a former partner in 2009, for which he served a prison sentence. His case drew significant public attention at the time due to his modelling career and the seriousness of the offences.
The current charges include stalking and intimidation with intent to cause fear or harm, as well as contravention of an apprehended violence order (AVO). Bail was denied at a Parramatta Local Court hearing, with the magistrate citing his prior record and the nature of the alleged conduct.
Court Proceedings
The case is scheduled to return to Parramatta Local Court for mention later this month. Prosecutors have indicated they will oppose any future bail applications, arguing that Monteiro poses an ongoing risk to women with whom he comes into contact.
Defence lawyers have not commented publicly on the allegations. Legal experts note that breaching court orders can lead to significant penalties, including imprisonment, and that such breaches often result in more restrictive conditions being placed on offenders.
Wider Context
Advocates for survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence have used this case to highlight concerns about offender monitoring. In New South Wales, police and community services share responsibility for enforcing AVO conditions, but critics say resource limitations can hamper effective oversight.
The case also raises broader questions about recidivism among sex offenders and the adequacy of current legal measures to prevent repeat offences, particularly in situations where offenders encounter victims or potential victims in public spaces like courtrooms.
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