While yesterday it was announced that AC/DC's drummer Phil Rudd had been charged with attempting to procure murder of two men in New Zealand as well as with threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamine and cannabis, the charge of attempting to procure murder has been withdrawn. Meanwhile, the Aussie rockers have also released a brief statement addressing this situation. It is not clear where the drummer stands within the band right now.

The band posted on their official Facebook page: "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."

According to Stuff.co.nz, Rudd's lawyer, Paul Mabey QC, said the Crown solicitor withdrew the attempting to procure murder charge after a meeting between Mabey and police. "The decision to charge Mr Rudd was made by the New Zealand Police without consultation with the Tauranga Crown solicitor," he said.

The Crown solicitor said there was insufficient evidence to justify the charge and has withdrawn the charge, Mabey said.

"The charge alleging an attempt to procure murder should never have been laid," Mabey said. "The Crown solicitor's opinion was not sought."

Mabey said Rudd would defend the threatening to kill charge. He described the drugs possession charges as "minor".

"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 Crown reviewed the charges today and made the decision to withdraw the charge of attempting to procure murder, the police statement said.

The other charges remain before the court. We'll keep you updated on this.

Source:	stuff.co.nz
Band profile:	AC/DC