On Sunday, March 16, Launceston, Tasmania Mayor Matthew Garwood ignited controversy by posting a photograph of himself with Ronnie Radke, the lead vocalist of Falling in Reverse. Following backlash, Garwood publicly apologized for sharing the image, while Radke has come under scrutiny and reported to Australian police for creating “unacceptable” videos targeting Australian politicians.

Ronnie Radke Faces Police Reports for Inflammatory Videos

On March 23, credible sources including Rolling Stone Australia and Blunt Magazine reported that Radke was under investigation by Tasmania police due to his recent social media activity.

Specifically, Rolling Stone Australia highlighted comments from City of Launceston CEO Sam Johnson, who criticized Radke’s remarks and confirmed that Tasmania Police had been informed of the situation.

On March 22, Johnson issued a statement via the official City of Launceston Instagram account, which you can view below:

The City of Launceston strongly condemns the reckless and irresponsible behavior of US musician Ronnie Radke, who has utilized his social media influence to incite harassment and intimidation against elected officials.

His recent Instagram video, which encourages his followers to target and intimidate Councillors expressing concerns regarding a photograph with the Mayor, is not only irresponsible but entirely unacceptable.

It is imperative that Councillors can represent the community’s interests without fear of harassment or abuse. No individual, regardless of their celebrity status, should weaponize their platform against those exercising their democratic rights.

Radke’s actions pose significant risks to the safety and well-being of Councillors and their families, creating a hostile environment that undermines the principles of free speech, accountability, and civil discourse.

The council will not accept threats or harassment directed at its elected members or staff. We are collaborating closely with Tasmania Police to monitor this situation and ensure that any individuals responsible for abusive or threatening behavior face appropriate consequences.

We urge Mr. Radke to retract his inflammatory comments immediately and take responsibility for the harm his words have incited. We have reported the video to Instagram and are calling on all social media platforms to act swiftly to address the misuse of their services for inciting targeted harassment.

The City of Launceston is dedicated to serving our community with integrity and transparency. Attempts to intimidate or silence Councillors or staff will not succeed; we remain committed to upholding the values of democracy, respect, and public service.

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Radke’s Reaction and Public Statements

On March 21, Radke responded to the situation by retweeting a report from the ABC (Australian Broadcasting Corporation) featuring comments from Councillors Andrea Dawkins and Lindi McMahon. They expressed their concerns regarding the implications of the photo, particularly in light of Radke’s controversial history.

In his retweet, Radke commented: “Imagine ABC News grasping at straws since their ratings are so poor that they have to write articles about the Mayor of Tasmania taking a picture with me. Hey @ABC, I’m bigger than you and have a greater impact. There’s nothing you propagandists can do. Screw you.”

Later that day, Radke uploaded a lengthy and heated video to Instagram, where he lambasted “ABC News” as “propaganda pieces of garbage.” In the video, he stated: “Go give @andreaedawkinslovesequality the much-needed bullying she deserves.”

Throughout the video, he addressed the ABC’s report, delivering an aggressive response:

[ABC News] I’m coming for you next. Australian council members, fuck you. . . . You guys are such pathetic cowards. . . . [to McMahon] Are you kidding me, you ugly shill? Do you know anything about me? I was accused of a crime I didn’t commit, and they found out she lied. I had to sue her for millions. Do you understand that what you read may not be true? You’re a disgrace to your city, and I’ll ensure you feel the consequences.

Radke also displayed the phone number and email address of Dawkins, adding:

[I] I would hate for that to get out, resulting in you receiving a flood of emails and calls about how— you want to talk about equality? Why am I not included, you ignorant hypocrite? . . . Screw all your council members and screw ABC News, your propaganda machine. I’m coming back with a vengeance.

He went on to boast about his contributions to Australia’s economy, comparing his treatment to that of Tommy Lee, while also expressing sympathy for Mayor Garwood.

You can view the full video below.

On March 22, Radke posted another equally intense video response with a straightforward caption:

@girlcalledcatie and @lindimcmahon can both expect backlash too. You all deserve this treatment. I just supported your economy, and this is how I’m repaid? Being labeled a predator and abuser by your councilman. A musician. You all are making your state and country look foolish.

In that video, Radke reiterated his disdain for McMahon’s comments, stating, “What’s degrading and disgusting, you foolish woman?”

He further insulted her appearance, referring to her as a “moon-faced coward” and “disfigured,” while displaying a picture of Sloth from The Goonies. He continued to attack the ABC, suggesting that they should resign from their positions.

You can see that video below:

The Events Leading to the Controversy and Garwood’s Explanation

On March 16, Mayor Garwood shared the controversial photo (taken during Falling in Reverse’s recent Australian tour) on Facebook, accompanied by the following caption:

Perhaps one of the most controversial figures of my generation within the hard rock music scene. From Escape the Fate to his current work with Falling in Reverse – Ronnie Radke! Through various changes and personal trials, it was incredible to meet, greet, and discuss Tasmania and individual growth.

It’s always thrilling to play the “Mayor card.” Critics may come in droves, but strength lies in self-belief, the support of those around you, and the resilience to persevere.

*New collaboration set for release in 2026!

Garwood’s post quickly drew criticism in the comments, with one user expressing: “Imagine posing with someone as detestable as this and dismissing the concerns of those voicing discomfort as ‘haters.’ What a disappointing response from someone expected to be a community leader.”

However, he also received support from some followers.

As reported by The PRP, members of the Launceston City Council and the local community expressed their disapproval of the post. Notably, Councillor Andrea Dawkins shared that she received messages from concerned Launceston women: “They are understandably confused as to why our mayor would align himself with someone convicted of parole violations related to violence.”

Similarly, Councillor Lindi McMahon added [via the ABC report]:

I stand in solidarity with all women who have suffered from violence, whose voices remain silenced while individuals like Ronnie Radke receive hero status. I’m sure the women of Launceston who attended the recent activism launch would be questioning the sincerity of our mayor’s words on that occasion.

In contrast, Councillor Joe Pentridge argued [via the ABC report], “We’re being overly sensitive. Matthew is a popular mayor, and it’s impossible to please everyone. I support Matthew because he was elected by the people.”

On March 19, Garwood responded to the backlash on Facebook: “As a fan of heavy metal music, I attended the Falling in Reverse meet and greet and I’m genuinely saddened that my post has caused offense and concern. I acknowledge that I could have expressed myself and responded much better.”

He continued:

I attended the event not as an official representative of the City but rather as a private citizen. However, I recognize that it can be challenging to separate personal life from public duty.

I viewed this as an opportunity to meet a band that shaped my high school experience. I never intended to endorse their actions or personal beliefs. I appreciate that opinions vary, and I respect those differing perspectives.

My comment about “playing the mayor card” was meant as a lighthearted quip, reflecting how cool it is to have conversations, especially in this context with tattoos and all.

I understand that some community members have raised valid questions regarding Ronnie Radke’s past and my association with him. I was aware of some accusations but not all details; my focus was on the music.

I apologize for any distress caused to members of the community. As Mayor, I strive to represent all residents of Launceston with integrity and openness.

On March 22, Garwood shared another update regarding the incident and its aftermath.

“Reflecting on the past few days, this has been absolute chaos,” he began, adding:

I am deeply concerned about the serious threats directed at my colleagues and the manner in which these posts have been presented.

The recent social media activity by Ronnie Radke concerning City of Launceston Councillors represents his personal views and does not reflect my beliefs in any capacity. I do not support violence or threats against anyone; I advocate for respectful discourse even amid disagreement, which is an area where I can improve.

These posts are a personal reaction from Mr. Radke to comments made about him. They were not directly related to my presence at his performance. It’s crucial to distinguish individual opinions from broader discussions, and I encourage respectful dialogue on all matters.

As noted in my previous post, I viewed this as merely a chance to meet a band I’ve enjoyed since high school. I never intended to support any specific actions or beliefs of the band. I recognize that differing opinions exist, and I will continue to honor those perspectives.

Both Garwood’s March 19 and March 22 posts received a mix of reactions from followers, which you can view below.