NEWS
Prosecutors dismiss charges against country singer Bailey Zimmerman
Performer had faced multiple charges after allegedly destroying room at Sandia Resort & Casino
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Prosecutors on Wednesday dropped criminal charges against country artist Bailey Zimmerman about a month after he allegedly damaged a Sandia Resort & Casino hotel room, court records show.
Deputy District Attorney Steven Diamond filed a nolle prosequi dismissing charges against Zimmerman shortly after 5 p.m. in Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court.
The dismissal came the same day Zimmerman said he is 鈥渃ommitted to doing the work necessary to learn and grow.鈥�
"Charges were dropped after Bailey took immediate responsibility for his mistake,鈥� Zimmerman鈥檚 attorney, Kitren Fischer, said in an email Wednesday evening. 鈥淲e are grateful to the Pueblo of Sandia and the District Attorney鈥檚 Office for this just and swift resolution.鈥�
Zimmerman earlier Wednesday issued a statement through his attorney apologizing to the Pueblo of Sandia and everyone at the casino.
鈥淚 never meant for any of this to come across as disrespectful,鈥� Zimmerman said. 鈥淚 am deeply sorry for my actions that transpired. I respect your community and the hospitality and appreciate the opportunity that was given to me to perform on Native Land. I take full accountability for everything that happened and I am sorry to anyone who feels hurt or disrespected.鈥�
On June 18, an arrest warrant was issued charging the singer with criminal damage over $1,000 and obtaining services by false pretenses. On May 27, Zimmerman allegedly got drunk, got into a fight with bandmates and damaged a room at Sandia Resort & Casino, causing his concert to be canceled.
He apologized to his fans, saying 鈥測ou deserved better from me.鈥�
鈥淚 understand that being a musician comes with big responsibilities, both on and off stage, and I know that I fell short that day,鈥� he said. 鈥淚 am reflecting on the disappointment and concern that I caused.
"I am taking this legal matter seriously鈥� Thank you to my fans for holding me accountable and for understanding that I am human. I do not take your support for granted.鈥�
Zimmerman is known for songs including 鈥淩ock and a Hard Place鈥� and 鈥淗ell or High Water.鈥�
Gregory R.C. Hasman is a general assignment reporter and the Road Warrior. He can be reached at ghasman@abqjournal.com or 505-823-3820.
