Virginian doom unit Pentagram‘s Australian and New Zealand tour has been postponed following resurfaced abuse and neglect charges against frontman Bobby Liebling. Hardline Media pulled the plug today (July 18) after journalist and activist Sherele Moody brought renewed attention to Liebling’s 2017 conviction for abusing a vulnerable adult—believed to be his mother. He served 18 months in prison and was sentenced to three years probation.
Moody, known for her work with Australian Femicide Watch, called out the timing of the tour amid what she describes as a “male violence epidemic,” urging fans to voice concerns to venues. Hardline Media initially responded to the backlash and said they would issue a statement later in the day.
In 2017, Liebling, was sentenced to 18 months in jail following charges of physical abuse.
The then-63-year-old vocalist was arrested earlier that year and charged with one count of “abuse/neglect of a vulnerable adult-custodian.” According to Maryland court records, Liebling pleaded guilty to the charge and began serving his sentence in the Montgomery County Detention Center.
At the time of his arrest, Pentagram were scheduled to tour with The Obsessed. However, the band announced that Liebling would not be taking part in the tour, with touring guitarist Victor Griffin stepping up to handle vocal duties. The band clarified that Liebling’s absence was due to “personal issues.” He would return to the band in 2019.
In a since delete statement, promoters Hardline Media shared:
Due to the current allegations surrounding the Pentagram Australian/New Zealand Tour, Hardline Media have decided to put this tour on hiatus. To be clear, no VISAs have been granted, as has been stated previously by other media. No venues or any staff hitherto are party to these allegations.
With great respect, we appreciate your patience and understanding while we manage this situation.
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