‘We’re not the victim in all this’: Kasabian condemn domestic violence after Tom Meighan assault charge

Meighan pleaded guilty to assaulting former fiancée in April

The members of Kasabian released a second statement condemning domestic violence after former singer Tom Meighan pleaded guilty to assaulting his former fiancée.

Less than 24 hours before he appeared in court, Kasabian had shared a statement announcing Meighan’s departure from the band to work on his “personal issues”.

On Tuesday (7 July) night, the band shared a second statement to Twitter, explaining that they could only comment in full “now that the legal proceedings have been concluded”.

“No one in the band wanted this to happen,” the statement read. “We have all worked so hard for the past twenty three years and had big plans for our future together. We’re completely heartbroken.

“But we were left with no choice but to ask Tom to leave the band. There is absolutely no way we can condone his assault conviction. Domestic violence and abuse of any kind is totally unacceptable.”

They continued: “As soon as we found out about the charges made against Tom, we as a band made the decision that we could no longer work with him. Unfortunately we had to hold back this information until he was found guilty in court.

“Ultimately, as much as Tom has hurt us all, we’re not the victim in all this,” they concluded. “Domestic violence is something that can never be excused.”

Appearing at Leicester Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, Meighan pleaded guilty to assaulting his former fiancée Vikki Ager on 9 April. The court heard how the musician “smelt heavily of intoxicants”, while a child was the one to call 999.'

Meighan was sentenced to 200 hours of community service.

Anyone who requires help or support can contact the National Domestic Abuse Helpline which is open 24/7 365 days per year on 0808 2000 247 or via its website nationaldahelpline.org.uk/