Brandon Alexander Fried, The Neighbourhood drummer, was ousted from the band after Maria Zardoya, the lead singer of the indie pop band The Marias, accused him on Sunday of groping her at a bar. 

Zardoya made the allegations against Fried in an Instagram story saying that the drummer had invaded her space, privacy and body. She also tweeted her allegations and notified the band about it.

Since her allegations, The Neighbourhood has come forward and said that they have fired Fried from the band. Shortly after their announcement, Fried also wrote a personal apology to Zardoya and claimed that he did what he did under influence.

Also read: The Neighbourhood sacks drummer Brandon Fried after sexual assault allegations

What are the allegations against Brandon Alexander Fried?

“I was at a bar last night, and I was groped under the table by Brandon Fried @brandonfried_, the drummer of the Neighbourhood,” Zardoya wrote in her Instagram story. “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 added. 

Here’s a screenshot of her Instagram story shared by a user on Twitter. 

Following her allegations, The Neighbourhood responded to her via a tweet.  “We are grateful to Maria for coming forward. We have zero tolerance for any kind of inappropriate behaviour towards women,” they said. “As a result of Brandon’s actions, he will no longer be a member of The Neighbourhood.” 

Also read: Who was Rachel Castillo? Missing California mother found dead, ex-husband primary suspect

“I am so terribly sorry to Maria,” Brandon Alexander Fried wrote in the apology he made to Zardoya. “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,” he added.