Country singer Bailey Zimmerman faces felony charges after alleged hotel damage and canceled New Mexico show
An affidavit details a series of incidents at a New Mexico resort that led to criminal damage and false service charges against country artist Bailey Zimmerman, who later apologized.
An affidavit obtained by a news outlet outlines a series of incidents involving country singer Bailey Zimmerman at the Sandia Resort and Casino in Albuquerque on May 27. After playing a round of golf, Zimmerman and his entourage returned to the hotel, where police say they were observed smoking a shared cigarette that Zimmerman allegedly used to burn other band members, who reportedly laughed.
At approximately 4:20 p.m., Zimmerman headed to the resort’s amphitheater for a soundcheck. Security officials noted that he appeared intoxicated and was upset with his band and manager. Surveillance footage showed him throwing microphones and cymbals, toppling equipment, and confronting a guitarist after kicking over drum gear.
The soundcheck lasted about 44 minutes before Zimmerman left, reportedly throwing a water bottle down stairs, spitting at a security officer, and initially refusing to enter a white SUV that was waiting for him. He returned to the hotel around 4:49 p.m., stumbling into the lobby with visible blood on his knee and difficulty maintaining balance.
Zimmerman canceled his scheduled concert, citing illness, and posted an apology to fans on social media. Resort management then ordered his party to vacate the property. Police later inspected Zimmerman’s hotel suite and documented damage estimated at $16,000, including a broken television, damaged furniture, a hole in a wall, and missing chairs, as well as $400 in unpaid alcohol charges.
A judge issued a warrant on June 18 charging Zimmerman with a felony for criminal damage to property and a misdemeanor for falsely obtaining services. The warrant included a no-bond hold, requiring him to remain in custody pending a court appearance. Zimmerman’s attorney released a statement in which the singer apologized to the Pueblo of Sandia, the resort staff, and ticket-holding fans, acknowledging responsibility and expressing a commitment to address the legal matter.