Just Now: Member of popular Pa. punk rock band has been arrested and charged for Sexual Assault

Members of popular Pa. punk rock band cleared in sexual assault case

Members of the popular punk rock band Anti-Flag have been dismissed from an ongoing sexual assault lawsuit against former frontman Justin Sane.

On Dec. 18, New York judge Brenda K. Sannes dismissed a portion of Kristina Sarhadi’s lawsuit that implicated the band’s LLC, Hardwork Distribution Inc., which was run by all four members of the band – Sane, Chris Baker, Chris Head and Pat Bollinger.

According to Loudwire, Sarhadi’s lawsuit argued that because the assault took place during a hotel stay funded by the group, it was liable for Sane’s actions. Judge Sannes, however, said that there was no basis to hold the other band members accountable and that there is no evidence they were aware of the lead singer’s actions.

“The Court agrees that Plaintiff has not plausibly alleged a breach of a specific duty owed to her,” the decision says. “Because the first amended complaint has even fewer allegations regarding Hardwork, Hardwork’s motion to dismiss is granted.”

The lawsuit against Sane, also known as Justin Geever, will continue, although Sarhadi claims that the singer has fled to Ireland, according to New Noise Magazine. He has yet to respond to the lawsuit, which could result in a default judgment.

Formed in 1988, Anti-Flag was known for its left-wing politics. The band released 13 albums and operated its own record label.

The band broke up in July 2023 after Sarhadi initially said she had been sexually assaulted by an unnamed person that was believed to be Sane.

Sane initially denied the accusation but 12 other women then came forward with similar accusations. Barker, Head and Thetic released a statement at the time apologizing to Sane’s accusers and condemning his actions.