Paparazzo released after actor Ryan Reynolds struck with vehicle in Vancouver

VANCOUVER – A Vancouver-area celebrity photographer accused of striking Ryan Reynolds with a car has been ordered by a judge to keep clear of the actor as he continues filming his latest movie.

Richard Fedyck, 52, made his first court appearance Tuesday on serious new charges for alleged criminal harassment of Reynolds over a six-week period before the confrontation in a hotel parkade.

After a joint submission by his defence lawyer and the Crown, Fedyck was released on conditions. Details cannot be released because of a mandatory publication ban.

Provincial court Judge Maria Giardini interrupted the Crown lawyer as she launched into a basic outline of the case.

“I know who Ryan Reynolds is,” Giardini said with a chuckle.

Fedyck stood with his hands in the pockets of his dark suit during the brief appearance. His lawyer Jonathan Waddington refused to comment.

The paparazzo was arrested two days after Reynolds was allegedly struck in the secure parking lot of the Shangri-La Hotel at about 7 p.m. on April 10.

Court documents show Fedyck is charged with criminal harassment, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and assault with a weapon — his car.

The indictment says Fedyck is accused of causing Reynolds to “reasonably fear for his safety” between Feb. 28 and April 11.

He has denied hitting the Vancouver-born actor, calling the accusation “100-per-cent false.”

Giardini agreed to the photographer’s release on his own recognizance and $1,000 bail.

Fedyck’s conditions include not contacting Reynolds or his wife, daughter or mother. He must avoid movie shoots, studios or residences where the actor may be and is banned from taking photos of him or his family.

The conditions, which also stipulate Fedyck can’t enter Vancouver except for court hearings, are in place until June 5, the judge ordered.

Fedyck’s next appearance is scheduled for May 5.

Vancouver police had initially recommended an intimidation charge against Fedyck after he was arrested on April 12.

“The evidence-gathering doesn’t stop there,” Const. Brian Montague said in an interview.

He said the file was reviewed by investigators within its domestic violence and criminal harassment unit after being handled by patrol officers.

Police have said Reynolds suffered a sore knee and back after allegedly being struck by a vehicle. But he was back on the set filming his new movie “Deadpool” the next day.

Fedyck has butted heads with celebrities before. He filed a lawsuit claiming verbal and physical assault by Pamela Anderson and Denise Richards during a film shoot in Richmond, B.C., in 2007. The suit was later dropped.