By JONATHAN ZWEYGARDT
Hays Post
A former member of the Fort Hays State wrestling and soccer teams accused of sexually assaulting a woman in December pleaded not guilty to several charges including rape Thursday in Ellis County District Court.
Efe Osaghae, St. Louis, pleaded not guilty, via a Zoom hearing, to rape, aggravated criminal sodomy, aggravated battery and aggravated burglary.
According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2019, Osaghae allegedly entered a 19-year-old’s residence without permission and sexually assaulted the victim. He is also accused of choking the victim.
Due to the pandemic, courts in Kansas are not currently allowed to hold jury trials.
District Judge Glenn Braun said during Thursday’s hearing that they are working on a plan to restart jury trials in the coming months. He said he expects Osaghae’s trial to be held after the new year.
A status hearing in the case is scheduled Jan. 4.