The singer pleaded not guilty during a preliminary hearing at Thames Magistrates' Court in east London today (February 2).

Doherty was charged as part of an investigation into the death of filmmaker Robin Whitehead at a flat in Hackney.

Two friends, Alan Wass, who was also charged with cocaine possession, and Peter Wolfe, who faces two counts of cocaine possession and one count of supplying the drug, also denied the charges, reports BBC News.

The hearing was due to take place earlier this month but was adjourned after all three men failed to attend.

Judge Jacqueline Comyns has committed the case to Snaresbrook Crown Court on March 29.

(by Jason Gregory)