Court puts back case of Hedley frontman until next month

TORONTO — The case of Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard, who faces three sex-related charges, was put over to September after a brief hearing in Toronto on Wednesday.

Hoggard, 34, was arrested last month and charged with one count of sexual interference and two counts of sexual assault causing bodily harm.

Police have said the charges relate to three separate incidents involving a woman and a girl under 16 that allegedly occurred in the Toronto area in 2016.

Hoggard did not appear in court for Wednesday’s hearing.

The singer, who lives in Vancouver, was represented by his lawyer, Ian Smith.

A Crown lawyer told the court he was waiting to receive police notes and videos as part of initial disclosure in the case. Smith said he was also waiting to view those materials.

Hoggard has previously denied ever engaging in nonconsensual sexual behaviour, but has said he behaved in a way that objectifies women.

His band went on indefinite hiatus this year, after allegations of sexual misconduct came to light, but before the charges were laid.

The two-time Juno-winning band had, by that point, already been dropped by its management team, blacklisted by scores of radio stations and abandoned by musicians who were booked as tour openers.

Hedley withdrew itself from consideration for this year’s Juno Awards in Vancouver and the band also backed out of performing on the telecast of the event.

Hoggard’s case is set to return to court on Sept. 12.