Full Breakdown
Katie Price Testifies in Ex-Husband Kieran Hayler’s Child Rape Trial
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Testimony at Lewes Crown Court
Kieran Hayler, 39, is on trial at Lewes Crown Court for three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault alleged to have occurred in West Sussex in 2016 when the victim was 13. During the trial, his former wife, media personality Katie Price, gave evidence from behind a screen, denying any “venom” toward Hayler and describing her reaction as “shocked… like really shocked.” Hayler denies all charges and says Price has mounted a campaign against him since their marriage ended.
Background & Context
Price and Hayler were married from 2013 until their separation in 2018 and finalised their divorce in 2021. The alleged offences took place while they were still married. The complainant first contacted the children’s charity NSPCC in 2021; the charity referred the matter to police, leading to the current trial.
Data & Statistics
- Charges: three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault.
- Alleged victim age at time of offences: 13 years (West Sussex, 2016).
- Defendant’s age: 39.
- Complainant’s current age: 23 (the court heard she was 14 when Price messaged her in May 2017).
Timeline
- August 9, 2018: Price told a social worker that Hayler had been grooming the complainant.
- October 8: The victim’s mother recalled to the court the day her daughter reported the assaults to police.
- Monday (court week): Price began giving evidence behind a screen.
- Tuesday (court week): Price was cross-examined by Hayler’s barrister.
Official Statements & Responses
Hayler reiterated his denial, characterising Price’s actions as part of a “campaign” launched after their marriage ended. The court has not yet ruled on the credibility of either side’s assertions.
Criticism & Opposition
The complainant’s mother testified that Price appeared “angry and feeling vengeful” toward Hayler and gave the impression of not caring about her daughter’s wellbeing, suggesting a personal vendetta rather than concern for the victim.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don't have any venom against Kieran, it was amicable when we split.” — Katie Price
- “It’s TV, it’s what I say. It’s what drives me in my work.” — Katie Price
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the extent of Price’s knowledge of media coverage. One account notes she claimed she had not read any reports because she was “handcuffed to Suella Braverman” for a reality show, while another simply states she had not followed any reports. The trial record does not yet clarify whether Price’s messages to the complainant constitute evidence of a coordinated campaign, leaving a key evidentiary gap.
What’s Next
The trial will continue with Price’s cross-examination scheduled for the following day and further testimony from both prosecution and defence witnesses. The jury’s deliberations are pending.