Former glamour model and media personality Jodie Marsh has entered a not guilty plea to charges of assault and threatening behaviour, with her trial now scheduled for next year. The 47-year-old appeared at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court on Friday, dressed in a black leather jacket, to face the allegations.
Court Proceedings and Charges
Marsh pleaded not guilty to assaulting Christopher Hynes by beating him on January 16 of this year. Additionally, she denied two counts of using threatening words or behaviour on the same date in Dunmow, Essex. One count relates to Mr Hynes, while the other involves Susan Hammond.
During the hearing, Marsh confirmed her name, date of birth, and provided her address as her solicitor's office in London. Deputy district judge Rhys Rosser granted her unconditional bail until the trial commences at Colchester Magistrates' Court on May 7, 2027. Marsh expressed gratitude by saying "thank you" to the judge as the proceedings concluded.
Background and Previous Legal Issues
This case adds to Marsh's recent legal history, which includes a separate matter involving her animal sanctuary. Last year, a judge ruled that she could keep lemurs at her private sanctuary in Lindsell, located nine miles north west of Braintree. This decision came after Uttlesford District Council had initially rejected her application for a wild animal licence following complaints from the local community.
Marsh argued during that hearing that online trolls were responsible for much of the criticism directed at her sanctuary. The judge acknowledged that she "genuinely cares" for the animals but noted "considerable animosity" between Marsh and local residents. The licence was ultimately granted with specific conditions attached.
Police Investigation Details
According to an Essex Police spokesman, officers were dispatched to an address in Lindsell at approximately 12:40 PM on Friday, January 16. Reports indicated that a woman was behaving aggressively towards a man and had assaulted him. Furthermore, verbal threats were allegedly made during the incident.
The case continues to develop as Marsh maintains her innocence, setting the stage for a high-profile trial in 2027 that will examine the assault and threatening behaviour allegations in detail.
