Sydney Band Part Ways With Guitarist Following Sexual Misconduct Allegations

Sydney band With Confidence have today announced they are parting ways with bandmate Luke "Rockets" Thomas following allegations of sexual misconduct. 

According to Kill Your Stereo, the guitarist was allegedly found sending messages of a sexual nature to a 14-year-old female fan on Facebook. 

Rockets was reportedly 22 at the time of the alleged incident. 

update: With Confidence Dismiss Speculation They Knew Of Ex-guitarist's Alleged Sexual Misconduct

The pop-punk outfit, who are currently in the middle of a US tour, addressed the allegations in a statement posted online today. 

"We are passionate about music being a safe space for people of all ages and are extremely disappointed and disgusted," the statement reads.

"We had absolutely no idea this had happened.

"This sort of abuse of power has been all too prevalent in today's industry. It is in these circumstances that people need to be completely stripped of that power and held accountable for their actions.

"We support and have endless respect for the individual who has come forward and ask that everyone respect their right to privacy."

In a statement given to The Music today, With Confidence's label, Hopeless Records, backed the band's decision.

"We are shocked and saddened by the allegations about Luke Rockets," the statement reads.

"No one should ever feel unsafe or be taken advantage of in our community and we support the individual who came forward.

"We appreciate that the band took quick action by removing Luke from the band and we stand by their statement."

See the full statement below.