A murder charge against AC/DC’s Phil Rudd have been dropped.
The 60-year-old drummer was charged with attempting to procure murder, making threats to kill and possession of illegal substances on Thursday (06.11.14) following a raid on his New Zealand home, but the murder-related charge has now been dropped due to a lack of evidence.
In a statement from Rudd’s lawyer Paul Mabey, he said: "I was advised by the 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 He has now withdrawn the charge."
However, the musician still faces charges pertaining to drug possession and threatening to kill.
Court documents had accused Rudd of attempting to a hire one person in September to kill two others, with a ruling yesterday (06.11.14) forbidding him from leaving the city of Tauranga or having any contact with any individuals related to the charge.
The rock band – one of the highest grossing musical acts ever – is due to launch their new album ‘Rock or Bust’ on December 2, with the star’s next court date set at November 27.
In a statement on their website released yesterday (06.11.14), the ‘Back in Black’ hitmakers confirmed their imminent plans will not be affected by the allegations against their drummer.
The statement read: "Phil’s absence will not affect the release of our new album Rock or Bust and upcoming tour next year."
Murder charge against AC/DC’s Phil Rudd dropped
