Jacob Hoggard finally admits the truth
Jessica Baker (formerly known as J.B.) shared her story on the CBC documentary Breaking Idol, directed by Tiffany Hsiung.
After nearly a decade of insisting he did nothing wrong, disgraced Canadian musician Jacob Hoggard has finally admitted he was guilty of sexually assaulting the Ottawa woman known as J.B.
The admission, at his first parole hearing in June 2026, was only one of several striking comments that reveal the full extent of the former Hedley frontman's years of denial, manipulation and gaslighting
In this special episode, Jessica Baker (J.B.) joins Kristi Lee to unpack the 11‑page Parole Board of Canada decision.
She reflects on the weight of Hoggard’s admissions after he forced a years‑long trial and appeals process and subjected her to years of public scrutiny.
Hoggard wasn’t required to comment on the other two young women who testified against him, whose allegations did not result in guilty verdicts. But the parole board still chose to recognize them in a deliberate and meaningful way.
You'll also hear why the board concluded Hoggard still requires “professional, arm’s‑length supervision” on day parole, why they refused to release him directly to his wife and family, and why his request for full parole was denied.
This update is in the public interest.
Further reading and helpful info:
READ the Parole Board’s full written decision [PDF]
LISTEN to The Trial of Hedley’s Jacob Hoggard podcast series
WATCH Breaking Idol - CBC documentary about the case directed by Tiffany Hsiung (Nov 2025)
VISIT Beyond The Verdict - our survivor-led advocacy group supporting sexual assault survivors by challenging misinformation in the courtroom and advocating for trauma-informed justice.
Resources for victims of crime:
Victims and the parole process - Canada.ca
Request for Victim Registration - Application Form - Canada.ca
Helpful Information about the Parole Process - Canada.ca
Victim's guide to information services - Canada.ca
Request parole board decisions: Request for Registry of Decision – Application Form - Canada.ca
Canadian True Crime donates monthly to those facing injustice.
This month we have donated to Beyond The Verdict.
Credits:
Special thanks to Jessica Baker
Research, writing, audio editing, narration, sound design: Kristi Lee
Voice of disclaimer: Krosby Audio
Music credits:
Theme songs: We Talk of Dreams
All other music from Epidemic Sound and Blue Dot Sessions.
Sources:
Parole Board of Canada written decision [PDF]
News articles:
Jacob Hoggard Granted Day Parole │ Exclaim!
Disgraced Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard granted day parole for six months | CP24
Parole board rejects former Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard's bid for full parole | CBC News
Disgraced Hedley frontman Jacob Hoggard wins day parole | Toronto Sun
Jacob Hoggard released on day parole on sex assault conviction | Globalnews.ca
Jacob Hoggard: Hedley singer granted day parole | CTV News
Other:
Myths and Stereotypes in Sexual Assault Case Law - Canada.ca