Jeff Frankenstein, Jody Davis, Duncan Phillips, and Adam Agee of the popular Christian band Newsboys released a statement regarding recent allegations that Michael Tait, the band’s former lead vocalist, is guilty of sexual assault.
On Wednesday, June 4, The Roys Report (TRR) reported that Tait, who was also a member of DC Talk, had been accused of grooming and sexually assaulting three men in their early 20s between 2004-2014.
In January, Tait abruptly announced that he was leaving Newsboys after 15 years. Tait shared that his decision to step down from the band didn’t “come lightly.” In fact, it was a “shock” even to him.
RELATED: Former DC Talk, Newsboys Member Michael Tait Accused of Pattern of Sexual Misconduct
Newsboys released a statement on June 5 saying that members of the band were unaware of Tait’s “double-life” until Tait confessed it to them before he announced his departure.
“Last night our hearts were shattered when we read the news alleging drug abuse and inappropriate sexual actions by our former lead singer, Michael Tait,” Newsboys said. “While Michael has not addressed these allegations, we are devastated even by the implications.”
The statement continued by acknowledging the survivors of Tait’s alleged abuse. “First and foremost,” they said, “Our hearts are with the victims who have bravely shared their stories. If you are a victim, we urge you to come forward. We absolutely do not condone any form of sexual assault.”
RELATED: Michael Tait Announces He Is Leaving Newsboys, a Decision That Didn’t ‘Come Lightly’
“The four of us are husbands and fathers. Between the four of us, we have fourteen children. Our wives and children have made many sacrifices while we have dedicated our lives to playing music together that glorifies God,” the band added. “We are horrified, heartbroken, and angry at this report and in many ways, we feel as if we and our families have been deceived for the last fifteen years.”
Newsboys concluded by admitting Tait shared with them in January that he “had been living a double-life.” But, they said, “We never imagined that it could be this bad.”
