Kieran Hayler Denies Rape Charges, Court Hears of Alleged Victim's Distress

Kieran Hayler, former husband of television personality Katie Price, is on trial at Lewes Crown Court, facing three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault against a 13-year-old girl in 2016. Hayler, 39, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The prosecution alleges that the assaults occurred at Price's former home in West Sussex.

The complainant, now 23, told police that Hayler instructed her to keep the encounters secret, stating she should "take it to the grave" and that he would get into trouble if she disclosed anything. The court heard that the alleged victim was left in tears by the encounters and felt responsible.

In a police interview recorded five years after the alleged incidents, the woman stated she initially lied to her mother about the full extent of what had happened, fearing disappointment and believing it was her fault. She described experiencing distress, including showering multiple times a day and changing her underwear frequently.

The investigation began in 2021 when the complainant contacted the NSPCC, who subsequently referred her to the police. Hayler was first interviewed by police in January 2022, where he denied all allegations and any sexual activity.

During the trial, the court heard that Hayler's defense intends to argue that the allegations were fabricated by Katie Price as part of a campaign against him following their marriage breakdown. Jurors were informed that Ms. Price is expected to be called as a witness.

Hayler, a stripper and reality TV personality, married Ms. Price in 2013. They were married until 2021. The alleged offenses are said to have taken place between June 1 and October 13, 2016.

In a previous statement, a representative for Hayler stated that he "strongly denies the allegations made against him in their entirety" and is cooperating fully with the police investigation, expecting his name to be cleared.

The trial at Lewes Crown Court is ongoing.