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Stan Rosenberg's Husband Pleads Not Guilty To Sex Charges, Ordered To Stay Away From State House

BOSTON (CBS/AP) — The estranged husband of former Massachusetts Senate President Stan Rosenberg pleaded not guilty to all charges in his first court appearance since being indicted on sexual assault and other charges.

Bryon Hefner was arraigned on Tuesday in Suffolk Superior Court on 10 charges of sexual assault, distributing nude photos without consent and criminal lewdness. He was indicted by a grand jury last month.

bryon hefner
Bryon Hefner in court on April 24, 2018. (WBZ-TV)

The prosecution cited multiple incidents where they say Hefner exposed himself to his victims. Hefner showed little emotion during the proceedings, and his lawyer said he "looks forward to defending himself in a court of law where accusers cannot remain anonymous and must face cross examination."

A judge released Hefner on personal recognizance and ordered him to stay away from the alleged victims and the Massachusetts State House. His trial is scheduled to start in March 2019.

Several men have accused Hefner of misconduct, prompting Rosenberg to step down as Senate leader in December. The Amherst Democrat is still a member of the Senate, and has since separated from his husband.

An independent investigation continues into whether Rosenberg violated any Senate rules.

Hefner's attorney has said his client intends to contest the evidence and witnesses against him.

(© Copyright 2018 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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