Honolulu District Judge Jim Dannenberg set May 9 for a preliminary hearing to determine whether Jones must stand trial on the charges.

Jones' lawyer Myron Takemoto said his client was pleading not guilty.

Jones, 20, did not speak during the brief hearing and did not comment later.

Among the supporters was Rosalie Woodson, the 80-year-old founder of the Rosalie Woodson Dance Academy in 'Aiea where Jones was the principal performer and an instructor.

"I want everyone to know we are all behind Daniel," Woodson said after the brief hearing. "All of our parents have just been wonderful ... We all love Daniel. It just breaks my heart."

Jones left his job because of the allegations, Takemoto said.

Takemoto declined to talk about the details of the allegations or the defense, but said the case has been "very devastating" for his client. "He loved his job and cherished his job," Takemoto said.