The popular band All Time Low is approaching a pivotal legal resolution after an extensive libel investigation has revealed that the serious sexual misconduct allegations against them, which emerged in 2021, were part of a calculated smear campaign. In their latest statement, the band has indicated that they are requesting the dismissal of the libel case as they strive to manage the situation privately and maintain their reputation.

Understanding the Original Allegations Against All Time Low

In 2021, alarming reports began circulating on social media platforms, including TikTok, accusing members of All Time Low of engaging in inappropriate sexual behavior with underage fans. One particular account detailed a disturbing encounter where a woman alleged that she was invited onto the band’s tour bus at just 13 years old and that the band members offered her alcohol in exchange for her bra, while subtly hinting at their identity. This shocking claim set off a series of reactions across various media channels.

Subsequently, another woman came forward to accuse Jack Barakat, a member of the band, of committing sexual assault while she was underage. Following this, a third individual claimed that there had been a staggering “97” allegations made against the band, further compounding the situation and drawing significant public attention.

All Time Low’s Initial Response to the Allegations

As the allegations began to gain momentum on social media, All Time Low swiftly issued a firm denial, categorically rejecting any wrongdoing. In an emphatic statement released in October 2021, the band declared, “The allegations being brought against us are absolutely and unequivocally false.” They explained that their initial silence was due to discrepancies in the accusers’ narratives, which they believed could potentially elevate falsehoods to a broader audience. The band underlined their commitment to combating these damaging claims, stating unequivocally that the accusations made against them were completely unfounded.

In a bold move, the band decided to take legal action in February 2022, filing a libel lawsuit against three of the accusers. Their legal complaint emphasized that the anonymity of the accusers forced them to resort to the civil court system to uncover the identities of those responsible, aiming to demonstrate that the defamatory statements were baseless and to seek appropriate justice.

By December 2022, a court ruling favored the band, ordering Twitter to disclose the identity of the individual who posted the initial accusation against them, marking a significant development in their legal battle.

Revealing Findings from the Libel Investigation

According to a recent court filing procured by Rolling Stone, the legal team representing All Time Low has uncovered evidence indicating that the allegations against Barakat and his fellow band members were nothing more than false and harmful online rumors. Attorney Michael B. Garfinkel stated, “The investigation confirmed what All Time Low was aware of from the start – the claims circulating in these posts are entirely unfounded.” He further elaborated that extensive time and resources were necessary to reassure All Time Low’s business and creative partners about the reckless and unsubstantiated nature of the accusations.

The investigation revealed that the first accusation was quickly disproven by a friend of the accuser, who asserted that she attended the concert with the person making the claim and provided a photo as evidence, stating that the events described “never happened.” The lawsuit later claimed that this individual admitted to fabricating her statements out of spite towards a peer, ultimately making her TikTok video private.

Regarding the individual who alleged that there were 97 claims against the band, that person deactivated their account shortly after posting and later recanted their statement, further undermining the credibility of the allegations.

The second accuser, who had claimed to have experienced an assault by Barakat at the age of 15, remained the only case of concern. According to statements from the band’s legal representative, subpoenas and court orders were necessary to reveal that the accusations originated from multiple individuals who had constructed a detailed and fictitious narrative, masquerading as a fan who falsely claimed to have been connected to the band for over a decade.

The lawyer emphasized, “No such individual exists, and no such incidents ever took place. The investigation revealed that this was a coordinated smear campaign involving various people trying to disguise their identities.”

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Instead of pursuing further legal action, Garfinkel stated, “All Time Low has opted to address the situation privately and protect the identities of those behind the smear campaign, rather than continuing litigation at this juncture.”

All Time Low’s Reflections Following the Libel Case Dismissal Request

In a heartfelt statement, the band expressed, “This has been an incredibly challenging period for us as we worked diligently to refute and debunk these damaging online rumors.” They conveyed their deep appreciation for the unwavering support from fans, fellow musicians, and collaborators throughout this arduous legal journey.

“With the request for dismissal submitted, we remain dedicated to promoting a safe and healthy environment at our concerts and within our fan community, and we eagerly anticipate the next chapter for All Time Low,” they concluded, signaling their commitment to moving forward positively.