The Neighbourhood sacks drummer Brandon Fried after sexual assault allegations

The Neighbourhood drummer Brandon Fried was ousted from the band on Sunday after he was accused of sexual assault by The Marías lead singer María Zardoya.  

In a statement on social media, following Zardoya’s claims, the band wrote: “We are grateful to Maria for coming forward. We have zero tolerance for any kind of inappropriate behaviour towards women. As a result of Brandon’s actions, he will no longer be a member of The Neighbourhood.”

The claims that Fried had groped her, were made by María on her Instagram story. She had made the bombshell claim that Fried’s abuse was “one of the most uncomfortable things [she’s] ever experienced.”

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“I was at a bar last night, and I was groped under the table by Brandon Fried @brandonfried_, the drummer of the Neighbourhood,” she wrote. “It was one of the most uncomfortable things I’ve ever experienced. I felt an invasion of my space, privacy and body. @thenbhd y’all need a new drummer, this guy is a complete creep.” She also tweeted to The Neigbourhood in order to make them aware of the allegations. 

Fied has not denied the allegations of groping made against him. Taking to his Instagram Instagram account on Sunday he said that he regretted his actions and added that he was looking at therapy for his alcohol and drug issues.

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“I am so terribly sorry to Maria,” he wrote. “My actions were inexcusable and intolerable. They are not reflective of who I am as a person, but clearly a reflection of who I become while under the influence. It is evident that I must address my problems with alcohol and substance abuse, which I am now seeking help for.”

“I want to apologize to women who have been victims of any behavior that has left them feeling uncomfortable or violated,” he continued. “I am also sorry to The Neighbourhood and our fans for letting them down.”