Toronto·Updated
Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard is in a Toronto court this morning as a preliminary hearing begins to determine if he will stand trial on sexual assault charges.
2-day hearing that began today in Toronto will decide whether case goes to trial
Adam Carter · Bioreports News ·
Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard is in a Toronto court this morning as a preliminary hearing begins to determine if he will stand trial on sexual assault charges.
The hearing is expected to take two days.
Toronto police arrested the 35-year-old singer last summer after a four-month investigation. He’s charged with one count of sexual interference and two counts of sexual assault causing bodily harm.
Investigators say the charges relate to three incidents involving a woman and a girl under age 16 that allegedly occurred in the Toronto area in 2016.
Hoggard appeared in court Thursday in a grey suit, clean shaven and flanked by a few supporters. He sat at a table with his lawyers.
Preliminary hearings, where the Crown presents key parts of evidence against an accused, are held to determine if a case will go to trial.
Witnesses at a preliminary hearing are sometimes called to give evidence, but the proceedings are covered by a publication ban to ensure a fair trial.
If the court deems there is enough evidence for a trial, and the accused pleads not guilty, a date is set.
A judge can also dismiss charges if it’s deemed there isn’t enough evidence to support a trial.
Allegations of sexual misconduct involving Hoggard emerged before the charges were laid, which prompted Hedley to go on an indefinite hiatus.
Controversy dogged the band’s last tour when it began in early 2018. Dozens of people used social media to accuse the Vancouver-area musicians of sexual misconduct, using the Twitter hashtag #OutHedley2K18.
Hedley fans also took to Twitter to voice support for the band in spite of those allegations, using the hashtag #IStandWithHedley.
About the Author
Adam Carter is a Newfoundlander who now calls Toronto home. He enjoys a good story and playing loud music in dank bars. You can follow him on Twitter @AdamCarterCBC or drop him an email at adam.carter@Bioreports.ca.
With files from The Canadian Press
