Former New Found Glory guitarist Steve Klein has been arraigned on seven felony accounts involving sexual acts with a minor.
After getting kicked out of the "My Friend's Over You" band late last year, the reason for the split has been made clear. According to Idobi (via Billboard), Klein has been charged with two counts of lewd conduct with a minor under the age 14, three counts of lewd conduct with a minor between age 14 and 15, one count of intent to commit a lewd act with a minor and one count of child pornography possession.
Despite the seriousness of these charges, Klein remains free from jail until his court appearances on March 20 and April 10.
He has pleaded not guilty to all charges.
According to a statement from Klein's lawyer to Idobi, the charges seem to stem from video chats that took place between the musician and females on an adult video chatting service.
His attorney Debra S. White, who insisted on her client's innocence, issued a statement to Idobi saying the video chats between Klein and the women were consensual and he believed all parties involved were over the age of 18. She clarified that he is not charged with having any lewd physical contact with any minors.
The child porn charge apparently stems from videos Klein possesses of the sexually natured video chats.
As stated, Klein will face these charges later this month.
Before getting the axe from New Found Glory on Dec. 12 (the same day his charges were filed), Klein was a founding member of the pop-punk band. His former band members made this statement about their split with him on Facebook: "Upon our return from Warped Tour Australia, Steve made us aware of possible allegations that might be made against him. At that point, not knowing all the details, we made the decision to part ways in order for him to deal with these personal issues. Us 4 members of New Found Glory have given our entire lives to this band and will continue to do so. We've been able to play all over the world for the most amazing fans. We can't wait to get in the studio to make a new album and we can't wait to get back on the road! Just coming off the Parahoy cruise and a surprise show in our hometown we are more inspired than ever! Thank you so much to everyone around the globe for always sticking by us. The future is bright."
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