Pretrial hearings rescheduled in sex case

The pretrial hearings for a Newport Beach couple accused of fostering a sexual relationship with a teenage girl for almost a year were rescheduled for next month, with a preliminary hearing where prosecutors can present evidence yet to be scheduled.

Jason Ellis, 33, faces six felony counts of having a sexual relationship with a 14-year-old girl between August 2007 and June 2008. Ellis, a celebrated fitness photographer who has shot for Calvin Klein and various men’s magazines, pleaded not guilty July 18.

Prosecutors say he groomed the girl into a sexual relationship with promises of helping her launch a modeling career.

Ellis’ fiance, 31-year-old Michelle Hecker, will appear with him in court Oct. 22 for their respective pretrial hearings. Hecker also pleaded not guilty July 18 to charges that she facilitated the relationship between Ellis and the teenager.

Each faces up to seven years in prison if convicted of all charges.

— Joseph Serna