A judge at Lewes Crown Court instructed former glamour model Katie Price to refrain from making additional allegations against her ex-husband, Kieran Hayler, during his ongoing child rape trial. Price, 48, appeared in court on Tuesday and earlier in the proceedings had told jurors that Hayler, 39, had “done stuff” with other children, remarks that prompted the judge to intervene.
Judge Mark van der Zwart directed Price to limit her testimony strictly to the incidents involving the complainant named in the charges, warning her in front of the jury: “When you’re asked questions today, please will you not mention any beliefs you may have about whether Mr Hayler has behaved inappropriately with anyone else, apart from (the complainant).” When Price repeated unsubstantiated claims, the judge halted her and reminded her of courtroom decorum.
During her final day in the witness box, Price engaged in a contentious exchange with the defence barrister, Arlette Piercy, who accused her of dishonesty. Price, sitting behind a screen, denied the allegations, saying, “I won’t have anyone tell me I’m a liar. I’m not a liar.” The interaction escalated, with Price objecting when Piercy referenced a past incident involving Price returning home intoxicated after drinking and cocaine use. Price described the reference as “discrimination” and addressed the media directly, challenging reports that characterized her as “coke-fuelled,” emphasizing her past struggles with drugs but condemning what she called attempts to “slander” her name.
Judge van der Zwart repeatedly intervened to restore order, advising Price to pause and calming proceedings before concluding the matters at hand.
Hayler faces three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault related to a 13-year-old girl at a West Sussex residence in 2016, during his marriage to Price. The allegations Price made against Hayler concerning other children are not part of the official charges.
During a police interview in January 2022, Hayler described the accusations as a “smear campaign” orchestrated by Price. Prosecutor Ryan Richter read from the transcript, with Hayler stating he felt “set up” and believed Price had “planted a seed” in the complainant’s mind. Hayler also suggested Price initiated the allegations because she “kills her inside” not to have anything on him.
The boyfriend of the alleged victim told the court that the girl disclosed to him via text that “something had happened” and referred to being “taken advantage of.” He identified the accused as “a guy called Kieran.” The witness also said the girl appeared uncomfortable discussing the matter.
Hayler, a former stripper, separated from Price in 2018 and their divorce was finalized in 2021. He denies all charges against him. The trial is ongoing.