LOS ANGELES (AP) – Joseph Seiders, the drummer for the Canadian indie rock band The New Pornographers, was arrested and charged with possessing child sex abuse materials, according to authorities. The 44-year-old musician is facing serious accusations involving the recording of young boys in a public restroom.
The incidents reportedly occurred at a Chick-fil-A restaurant in Palm Desert, California, a city situated in the Coachella Valley with a population of around 50,000. Law enforcement officials began their investigation after receiving a report on April 7 regarding suspicious behavior at the fast-food establishment. An 11-year-old boy informed the authorities that a man had recorded him while he was using the restroom.
Following the initial report, officers received another complaint two days later at the same Chick-fil-A location, leading to the arrest of Seiders. Upon searching his residence, investigators discovered evidence linking him to both incidents, resulting in multiple charges against him. These charges include possession of child sex abuse materials, child molestation, and invasion of privacy, as stated by the sheriff's department.
The Riverside County Public Defender's Office has opted not to comment on the case on behalf of Seiders. Meanwhile, authorities are actively seeking to determine if there are additional victims connected to these troubling incidents and continue to investigate further.
In light of these alarming accusations, The New Pornographers took immediate action by severing ties with Seiders, who joined the band in 2014. The band expressed their shock and devastation over the situation in a post shared on Instagram, stating, "Everyone in the band is absolutely shocked, horrified and devastated by the news of the charges against Joe Seiders."
The unfolding of these events has sent shockwaves through both the music community and the public at large, as the situation raises significant concerns regarding the safety and well-being of children in public spaces. As investigations continue, the impact of these allegations on Seiders’ career and the band's future remains to be seen.
