Photo credit: www.yahoo.com
The New Pornographers have swiftly cut ties with longtime drummer Joe Seiders following his arrest in Palm Desert, California, on charges related to child pornography.
The Riverside Sheriff’s office issued a press release detailing the events that led to Seiders’ arrest. Law enforcement was called to a Chick-Fil-A on April 7 after an 11-year-old boy informed officers that a man had filmed him while he was in the restroom. Over the next two days, staff members reported seeing the same man exiting the restroom after entering with young boys.
More from Billboard
Authorities recognized Seiders as a suspect and apprehended him when they responded to the reports. Following the arrest, officers executed multiple search warrants at his home, vehicle, and personal electronics, reportedly uncovering evidence tying him to the initial incidents and further charges, including possessing child pornography.
In the aftermath, Seiders was processed at the John Benoit Detention Center in Indio, California, facing multiple charges: possession of child pornography, annoyance/molestation of a child, invasion of privacy, and attempted invasion of privacy.
The band publicly expressed their shock and dismay in a statement on Instagram, stating, “Everyone in the band is absolutely shocked, horrified, and devastated by the news of the charges against Joe Seiders — and we have immediately severed all ties with him. Our hearts go out to everyone who has been impacted by his actions.” When further inquiries were made, the band’s management directed questions to their official statement.
Seiders, who became a member of the Canadian indie pop ensemble in 2014, participated in several of the band’s recent projects, including the albums Whiteout Conditions (2017), In the Morse Code of Brake Lights (2019), and Continue as a Guest (2023), in addition to their latest single “Ballad of the Last Payphone.” He is currently being held at the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility, with bail set at $1 million, and his first court appearance is scheduled for April 22.
Discussions surrounding sexual assault and related allegations often pose significant emotional challenges for survivors. Individuals seeking support may contact the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN), which offers free and confidential assistance to victims. For immediate help, RAINN’s National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 800.656.HOPE or through their website.
Best of Billboard
For updates on this developing story, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Source
www.yahoo.com