Kieran Hayler, the former husband of television personality Katie Price, has formally entered a plea of not guilty to allegations that he raped and sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl.
Court Appearance and Charges
The 38-year-old personal trainer appeared at Lewes Crown Court dressed in a black suit and blue overcoat. He faces three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault against a child, charges he unequivocally denies. The alleged offences are said to have occurred at an address in West Sussex between 1 June and 13 October 2016.
Hayler remains on conditional bail and is scheduled to return to court on 23 April for a further hearing. A full trial, expected to last for nine days, has been set to begin on 6 October 2026.
Background and Police Investigation
Sussex Police confirmed the charges last month, noting the investigation relates to a period when Hayler was still married to Katie Price. The alleged victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is not a member of either Hayler's or Price's extended families. Specially trained officers have been supporting the girl throughout the enquiry.
In a statement to the Daily Mail, Hayler's legal representatives said their client "strongly denies the allegations made against him in their entirety." They added that Hayler is fully cooperating with the police and "looks forward to his name being cleared."
Katie Price's Potential Role and Comments
Sources indicate that Katie Price is expected to be called as a witness during the trial. A Crown Prosecution Service source told The Sun that it "wouldn't be surprising" for her to give evidence, as she was married to Hayler at the time of the alleged crimes.
While Price has not issued a direct statement regarding the charges, she appeared to allude to them during a recent live show in London. Speaking about past traumatic experiences with men, she said, "current news... it's closer to home than you realise. I can't say anymore on it, but I'm sure you know what I'm getting to."
Hayler, a former stripper, was married to Katie Price from 2013 until their separation in 2018. The couple share two children.
