New Zealand authorities have dropped the charge of attempting to procure a murder against AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd a day after the rocker’s arrest.
SkyNews reports Rudd’s lawyer says that the charge of attempting to procure a murder has been withdrawn.
In a press release Paul Mabey QC said: 'I was advised by the (Tauranga) Crown Solicitor, (Greg) Hollister-Jones, that he had reviewed the police file and the available evidence to support the charge of attempting to procure murder. He had formed the view that there was insufficient evidence to justify that charge. He has now withdrawn the charge.'
A spokeswoman for Mr Hollister-Jones confirmed the procuring charge had been withdrawn on Friday.
Mabey added that Rudd would defend a threatening to kill charge, as well as drugs possessions charges, which Mabey described as 'minor'.
The drummer was arrested Thursday on the procure charge as well as possession of methamphetamine, possession of cannabis and threatening to kill.
Rudd entered no plea and was released on bail; he’ll be back in court in three weeks.
AC/DC released a statement on events Thursday, saying, “We've only become aware of Phil's arrest as the news was breaking. We have no further comment. Phil’s absence will not affect the release of our new album Rock or Bust and upcoming tour next year.”
Due December 2, “Rock Or Bust” is the first AC/DC album in 6 years and first without founding member Malcolm Young, who retired from the group to deal with ongoing health issues related to dementia.
Angus and Malcolm’s nephew, Stevie, handled rhythm guitar on the album and will join the band for a world tour next year.
See also:
VIDEO: AC/DC guitarist Angus Young in Paris
AC/DC drummer charged in murder plot
AC/DC to launch new album Rock Or Bust in Sydney
AC/DC singer supports UK dementia charity after Malcolm Young’s diagnosis
Search AC/DC at hennemusic
