The Latest: Ex-hostage Boyle makes video court appearance

OTTAWA – The Latest on former hostage Joshua Boyle, who faces 15 charges in Canada, including sexual assault. (all times local):

9:40 AM.

Canadian ex-hostage Joshua Boyle has made a brief appearance via video link for his preliminary hearing after being charged with offences including sexual assault, forcible confinement and administering a noxious drug.

A judge granted lawyer Ninetta Caparelli’s request for adjournment until Monday so the defence can work on a bail plan.

Boyle faces 15 charges.

Boyle had a beard and wore an orange t-shirt in Wednesday’s appearance, which lasted a few minutes.

Boyle, his wife Caitlan and their three children were freed in October in Pakistan, five years after the couple was abducted by a Taliban-linked militant group during a backpacking trip in neighbouring Afghanistan. The children were born in captivity.

The purported acts allegedly occurred between Oct. 14 and Dec. 30 after Boyle returned to Canada. A publication ban bars reporting information that could identify the alleged victims.