Modest Mouse guitarist Simon O'Connor addresses allegations and departure from tour
Guitarist Simon O'Connor said he mistakenly contacted an underage fan and apologized, after the band announced he would not join its upcoming North American tour.
Modest Mouse confirmed that guitarist Simon O'Connor will not take part in its North American tour beginning Tuesday in Ojai, California, after allegations surfaced that he sent inappropriate messages to a minor. The band posted an Instagram statement noting that Seth Jabour of Les Savy Fav will replace him on guitar.
O'Connor responded to the claims in a Reddit post, stating he opposes any sexual behavior toward minors and expressed remorse for his actions. He said he mistakenly identified a social-media profile as belonging to a repeat offender and sent a meme and a sticker, later deleting the messages when he realized his error.
"I am genuinely sorry to the person who received those messages. They didn’t deserve to be put in that position, and I’m sorry for the stress and attention this has brought them," O'Connor wrote.
He added that he understands some may doubt his account and that he can only tell the truth, take responsibility, and apologize. A subreddit moderator confirmed the post was indeed from O'Connor. A representative for the musician was not immediately available for comment.
The allegations originated from a Reddit user who identified herself as a 17-year-old fan, claiming she had received an erotic image and comments on bikini photos when she was 16, and shared screenshots of the alleged exchange.