Tom WarkJuly 22, 2026 — 4:33pmA photographer has denied using the chaotic aftermath of the Bondi Beach mass shooting to steal valuable camera equipment from one of the deceased victims.Danny James Ridley formally entered pleas of not guilty to seven charges in the Waverley Local Court on Wednesday, including stealing $3500 worth of photographic gear from Peter Meagher.Danny James Ridley (centre) leaves the court in Sydney on Wednesday. AAPIMAGERidley was present moments before gunmen opened fire on a crowd of people celebrating Hanukkah at Bondi Beach on December 14.The 35-year-old is accused of using the ensuing chaos to steal the camera equipment of 61-year-old Meagher, a retired police officer who was one of 15 people killed in the attack at the Jewish festival.Police allege Ridley pawned the equipment, which was later recovered, along with an SD card containing Mr Meagher’s last photographs.Ridley’s lawyer, Andrew Dikha, told the court some charges might be resolved through further communication with prosecutors.Bondi Beach shooting victim Peter Meagher.He has also been hit with firearm and drug charges after police allegedly found handcuffs and a small white crystalline powder that was allegedly meth.He will return to court on September 23.In May, Mr Meagher’s widow, Virginia, said the return of her husband’s camera was a miracle after months of inquiries.“My message to the police is thank you for your diligence, your persistence,” she said at the time.“The last little piece of him is being returned.”Mr Meagher, a beloved figure at Randwick Rugby Club, had been working as a photographer at the religious celebration when he was fatally shot.Naveed Akram has been charged with murder and terrorism offences over the massacre, while his father and fellow gunman Sajid was fatally shot by police.AAP Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.From our partners