Blood for Blood have kicked out vocalist Erick “Buddha” Medina following a month of nasty rumors and disturbing accusations that Medina molested a 13-year-old girl.
“We have remained silent since, as the allegations shocked and devastated us personally,” the band said in a statement. “Also we did not wish to engage in any sensationalism (accusations, mudslinging, gossip, etc). We also hoped we might get a clearer picture of the situation. None of us were present at the time of the alleged incident, nor had we been made aware of it until nearly a month after the event in question transpired.”
“This band has seen its share of difficulties and personal crisis but this was a situation we were never prepared to deal with. And since we had no hand in creating this situation and can only react, we feel we have to be very clear.”
“Make no mistake, the nature of the alleged activity, true or false, is an affront to EVERYTHING this band is about. Some of the members of this band have been mistreated and abused as a children, personally. We would never, COULD never ignore, condone, or even associate with such behavior. At this time we are too emotionally drained to make plans for the band’s future, but due to the nature of these allegations, we feel it is impossible to continue with anyone linked to such allegations, thus, whatever the future holds for Blood For Blood, it will not include Erick ‘Buddha’ Medina. Our most sincere apologies to anyone effected by this situation.”
The band added, “we have seen and heard some comments from people expressing regret for supporting the band in the past or getting Blood For Blood’s words or imagery tattooed on their bodies. Just to be clear, for the last 16 years Rob [Lind] has written and produced ALL the words and music for Blood For Blood. And those words and music are as sincere and honest today as they were a month ago.”