Kieran Hayler, the former husband of television personality Katie Price, has pleaded not guilty to charges of rape and sexual assault relating to a 13-year-old girl. The 38-year-old personal trainer appeared at Lewes Crown Court this morning to formally enter his pleas.
Court Appearance and Charges
Arriving at court in a thick black puffa jacket over a dark suit, Hayler stood in the dock and confirmed his identity. The court clerk read out the four charges against him: three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault. When asked for his plea, Hayler responded "Not guilty" to each charge in a clear voice before resuming his seat.
The alleged offences are said to have occurred between 1 June and 13 October 2016, a period during which Hayler was married to Katie Price. The court heard that the trial is scheduled to begin in October 2025 and is estimated to last one week.
Background of the Allegations
Sussex Police confirmed the charges in October, stating the alleged victim, who was 13 at the time, has received support from specially trained officers. The girl is not a member of either Ms Price's or Mr Hayler's families. Hayler, from Northchapel in West Sussex, was granted bail following the hearing on the condition he does not contact the alleged victim.
A representative for Hayler issued a statement ahead of the hearing, saying: "Kieran Hayler strongly denies the allegations made against him in its entirety. He is fully engaged and has been co-operating with the police throughout the investigation and will continue to do so. He looks forward to his name being cleared believing in the judicial system to do so."
Connection to Katie Price
Kieran Hayler and Katie Price, the former glamour model and media star, began their relationship in 2012. He proposed on Christmas Day that year, and the couple married at the Sandals Royal Bahamian resort in the Bahamas in January 2013. They had two children together before separating in 2018 and finalising their divorce in 2021. Hayler was Price's third husband after her marriages to singer Peter Andre and cage fighter Alex Reid.
Prior to his relationship with Price, Hayler had worked in various roles including as a personal trainer, actor, stripper, and reality television star. Reports have suggested that Katie Price may be called to give evidence during the forthcoming trial, given the alleged crimes are said to have occurred during their marriage.
