Due to lack of evidence...Yesterday (November 6th) news broke that *AC/DC* drummer Phil Rudd had been charged with a number of offences by New Zealand magistrates.
The drummer will face accusations of threatening to murder someone and possession of cannabis and methamphetamine.
However initial charges of plotting to murder two people - sensationally reported across the globe - have been dropped within 24 hours due to lack of evidence.
It's a remarkable about-turn from New Zealand authorities. Phil Rudd, 60, appeared in court, with his lawyer Paul Mabey QC later issuing a full statement:
"I was advised by the Crown Solicitor 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 He has now withdrawn the charge."
Continuing, the lawyer said:
"The charge alleging an Attempt to Procure Murder should never have been laid. The Crown Solicitors opinion was not sought. The charge is now withdrawn -- within twenty four hours of Mr Rudd's first appearance in Court.
Mr Rudd has suffered unnecessary and extremely damaging publicity as a result of widespread and sensational reporting of a very serious allegation, which on any basis was never justified.
The damage to Mr Rudd is incalculable. Questions arise as to the degree of care taken by those responsible for arresting and charging him with Attempting to Procure Murder.
Citizens are entitled to a responsible exercise of the power to charge which, as is proved here, can give rise to potentially irreversible damage if that power is not exercised responsibly.
Mr Rudd is considering any possible remedies he may have."
Check out the full statement at the *New Zealand Herald.*
As news of the arrest broke, AC/DC offered the following statement to *Rolling Stone*: "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."
AC/DC's new album 'Rock Or Bust' will be released on December 1st.
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