The Joe Seiders, American drummer known for contributions to Canadian independent act the New Pornographers, arrested. He’s been accused of possessing child sexual abuse imagery. The arrest occurred on the date of a scheduled performance at an unnamed date, inciting immediate outrage from both the band and law enforcement authorities.
Riverside County, California’s sheriff’s office announced Wednesday that they found forensic evidence attributing Seiders to at least two alleged incidents. They realized that other crimes deserved attention, starting with child pornography possession. After the arrest, law enforcement obtained a search warrant to his residence, car, and cellphone to get more evidence.
In addition to contributing production work, Seiders has appeared on the New Pornographers’ three most recent studio albums and has toured extensively with the band. He’s well-known for his artistic collaborations with other artists, such as Neko Case, John Oates, Juliana Hatfield, and most famously Gary Jules. Before that, he was a documented member of the collective Beat Club.
Following these disturbing allegations, the New Pornographers took to social media to share all of their shock and devastation.
“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.” – The New Pornographers
Seiders is still in jail awaiting trial, with his bail set at $1 million. The events surrounding his arrest have created widespread outrage within the music community. Perhaps no one cares more than fans… Fans are freaking out.
The consequences of Seiders’ actions have reached further than his immediate community, because the band is adamant about holding their own accountable.