Former National Rugby League star Jarryd Hayne is back in
Downing Centre District Court to face a third trial over
allegations of sexual assault.
Vehemently
maintains innocence
Mr Hayne has steadfastly maintained his innocence throughout
years of prosecution, and has formally pleaded not guilty once
again to two counts of
sexual intercourse without consent, also known as sexual
assault.
He is presumed innocent until or unless he is proven to be
guilty in a court of law.
Judge's
opening address
Given Mr Hayne's high profile as a former NRL superstar, the
protracted court battle and the extensive media coverage, Presiding
Judge Graham Turnbull has directed all jurors to bring an open and
unbiased thought process to the task at hand, saying they must be
capable of approaching the trial with "a blank sheet of paper
in mentally".
