Ohio State band instructor pleads not guilty in rape case

COLUMBUS, Ohio - A drum major instructor for Ohio State University's marching band has pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting a female student.

Stewart Kitchen, 28, is suspected of assaulting the 19-year-old student at his home on April 16.

Defense attorney Tom Hayes says Kitchen posted bond set at $70,000 and was expected to be released Wednesday.

The indictment includes two counts each of rape and sexual battery, and a misdemeanor charge of failing to comply with underage alcohol laws.

Court documents allege that Kitchen and the woman walked to his Columbus home after they had drinks. Kitchen allegedly refused to help the woman return to her own home, before he allegedly sexually assaulted her in his bedroom.

Last year, Ohio State fired the band's director after an investigation determined he ignored "a sexualized culture" in the band.

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