Sydney Hairdresser Accused of Drugging and Raping Grindr Dates Seeks Bail

A high-profile Sydney hairdresser, Danny Soulaimane, who has styled the hair of "global superstars and celebrities," is seeking release from prison while facing serious charges, including sexual assault and drug offenses. Soulaimane, 39, was arrested on August 7 and has been held at Silverwater prison.

Soulaimane operated SalonDS in Sydney's inner-south, promoting 'revolutionary' hair treatments from a 'legendary world champion hair artist.' According to court documents, police allege Soulaimane met two men, aged 34 and 37, through the gay dating app Grindr. He is accused of inviting them to his salon after hours, where he allegedly administered a substance before sexually assaulting them.

The alleged incidents occurred on March 8 and May 25. Both complainants reportedly visited the salon while it was closed to the public, allegedly lost consciousness after ingesting a substance, and were subsequently raped. One complainant is quoted as telling Soulaimane, "you've drugged me" and "I'm in danger."

Police have identified the substance as methamphetamine, though investigations into its exact nature and administration are ongoing. The two male complainants, who did not know each other, independently reported being raped while unconscious.

Following the men's allegations, police arrested Soulaimane at his salon. He is charged with two counts of sexual intercourse without consent and two counts of administering an intoxicating substance with the intent to commit an indictable offense. Additionally, officers allegedly found 15 grams of methamphetamine when they arrested him, leading to a charge of possession of a prohibited drug. Soulaimane has operated SalonDS since 2005.

Soulaimane's bid for bail was previously denied by Judge Graeme Guy, who cited the seriousness of the alleged offenses. During a videolink appearance from Surry Hills police cells, Soulaimane expressed distress upon learning of the bail rejection. His lawyer, Kiki Kyriacou, argued that the encounters were consensual and offered a $50,000 surety with strict bail conditions, including a form of house arrest.

Prosecutors presented what they described as a strong case supported by forensic evidence. Despite the denial, Soulaimane is scheduled to make a new bid for release at the NSW Supreme Court on October 19. The SalonDS has been under alternative management since Soulaimane's incarceration.