Toronto Pastor-Activist Pleads Not Guilty To Nova Scotia Sex Assault Charge

Darpan News Desk The Canadian Press, 11 Apr, 2016 12:23 PM

KENTVILLE, N.S. — A prominent Toronto pastor has pleaded not guilty to decades-old sex-crime allegations in Nova Scotia.

Reverend Brent Hawkes is accused of indecent assault and gross indecency related to allegations of a sexual assault in the 1970s.

As expected, Hawkes did not appear in provincial court today in Kentville. Halifax lawyer Joel Pink appeared on behalf of Hawkes' lawyer, Clayton Ruby.

Not guilty pleas were entered on the charges and trial dates set for seven days starting Nov. 14.

Hawkes — a gay rights advocate who officiated at former NDP leader Jack Layton's state funeral in 2014 — has maintained his innocence and says he will fight the accusations.

Prev Next

MORE National ARTICLES

Priority Is To Find Chase: RCMP Search For Missing Boy, 2, In Rural Manitoba

Mounties say their only priority right now is to find Chase Martens.

Priority Is To Find Chase: RCMP Search For Missing Boy, 2, In Rural Manitoba

Melee Erupts At P.E.I. Rink After Linesman Taunts, Attacks Hockey Player: Coach

Mark Whidden, head coach of the Midget C Chebucto Chill, says he and three of his teenaged players have since been suspended indefinitely, pending completion of the Mounties' probe

Melee Erupts At P.E.I. Rink After Linesman Taunts, Attacks Hockey Player: Coach

Justin Trudeau, Ministers Fan Out Across Country To Promote Liberals' Maiden Budget

Kicking off a promotional blitz Wednesday to sell the big-spending budget, the prime minister insisted it delivers on the promise to revive the stagnant economy.

Justin Trudeau, Ministers Fan Out Across Country To Promote Liberals' Maiden Budget

Seven Canadians Among Latest To Receive Carnegie Medals For Heroism

John W. Gallie, 28, of Toronto and Craig Alexander Morash, 43, of Goodwood, N.S., are recognized for rescuing several people from a burning home in Glace Bay, N.S., in May 2014.