Kieran Hayler acquitted of rape and sexual assault charges

Kieran Hayler has been found not guilty of raping and sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl in West Sussex in 2016. Following a trial at Lewes Crown Court, a jury of ten returned verdicts after nearly 15 hours of deliberation, clearing the 39-year-old of three counts of rape, one count of sexual assault, and four alternative counts of sexual activity with a child.

During the proceedings, Hayler accused his ex-wife, media personality Katie Price, of orchestrating a ‘smear campaign’ involving ‘fabricated’ allegations. Price, who provided evidence during the trial, denied being ‘angry and vengeful’ toward her former husband.

Outside the court, Hayler expressed gratitude to his family and legal team for their support during ‘five years of absolute hell’ and stated his intention to rebuild his life.