Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard will head to trial over sex offence charges related to allegations brought forward by a woman and a girl under the age of 16.
Hoggard did not display any emotion as a judge ruled Friday that the Canadian singer will stand trial over two counts of sexual assault causing bodily harm and one count of sexual interference.
Hoggard, 35, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. He has previously denied engaging in any non-consensual sexual behavior but said that, in the past, he has acted in a way that objectified women.
Both accusers testified during the hearing, but a publication ban restricts reporting on any evidence presented in court.
The judge’s decision comes after a two-day preliminary hearing in Toronto. Hoggard entered court dressed in a light grey suit and holding hands with his wife, Canadian actress Rebekah Asselstine.
Hoggard, whose career was launched on the reality show Canadian Idol, was arrested and charged last summer after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced. Police said the charges are related to three separate incidents that allegedly happened in the Toronto area in 2016.
Hoggard is expected to appear in court next on August 23.
Hedley is on an indefinite hiatus as the case proceeds.
