Peter James Darling, 52, loses freedom after allegedly reoffending while on bail for child sexual charges

A Barossa man who allegedly tried to pay to abuse a child is behind bars after a court was told he had reoffended while on bail.

A Nuriootpa man has had his bail revoked after allegedly reoffending while on bail for serious child sexual charges – including allegedly attempting to pay to sexually abuse a child.

Peter James Darling, 52, appeared via video link in the District Court on Wednesday before Judge Paul Muscat and did not argue against his bail being withdrawn.

“In light of the defendant allegedly reoffending while on bail for serious child sex offences, his bail agreement is revoked,” Judge Muscat said.

Judge Muscat asked defence if the not-guilty pleas previously entered would stand, who confirmed they would not change.

“I would prefer a pre-trial conference to be held because the evidence against Mr Darling is quite strong,” His Honour responded.

Mr Darling will stand trial next year charged with a number of basic and aggravated offences of child sexual abuse charges including attempting to use a child in a commercial sexual services and communicating with intent of making a child amenable.

In court documents released to The Advertiser, police allege the offending took place at various times between March 15 and September 6, 2022.

The documents alleged some of the offending, including communicating with two different children, was done knowing they were under the age of 14 – making the offence aggravated.

Mr Darling was remanded in custody and the matter will return to court in October.

Originally published as Peter James Darling, 52, loses freedom after allegedly reoffending while on bail for child sexual charges