Jacob Hoggard Granted Day Parole for Six Months
The former Hedley frontman was denied full parole but will serve his time in a halfway house under strict conditions.
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Jacob Hoggard, the former lead singer of Canadian pop-rock band Hedley, has been granted day parole for six months.
Hoggard has been serving a prison sentence after being convicted of sexual assault causing bodily harm. He appealed the court's decision after his sentencing in 2022 and was granted bail. In 2024, his appeal was denied, and his five-year prison sentence began.
Hoggard had recently requested full parole but was denied, with the parole board citing numerous risk factors in its decision.
"Your behaviour has involved violent, degrading and self-serving actions and has the potential to present a significant risk to society should you face the same urges which prompted your offending," the board's decision said. "It is the board's opinion that you will not, by reoffending, present an undue risk to society if released on day parole and that your release will contribute to the protection of society by facilitating your reintegration into society as a law-abiding citizen."
Per his parole conditions, Hoggard is not permitted to have contact with women under the age of 18 unless accompanied by an adult who is aware of his conviction. He is not allowed to have more than one cellular device, and he must share any text message transcripts with his parole supervisor if asked.
The parole board explained that Hoggard communicated with a 15-year-old female and lied to her with a view to manipulating her into having sex with him, grooming her over an extended period. The board noted he exploited a position of power with younger females.
Hoggard will not be allowed to live with his family and will spend time in a halfway house.