August 6, 2012 15:04

Lamb Of God's Randy Blythe says he is '100% innocent' of 'ludicrious' manslaughter charge

Singer also says it would 'irresponsible' of him to not return to Prague to answer the charge

Photo: PA

Lamb Of God frontman Randy Blythe has put out an official statement after he was released last week after spending 38 days behind bars in the Czech Republic.

The singer was originally arrested on June 27 at Prague airport over an incident that took place on May 24, 2010 at the band's show at Club Abaton in Prague.

According to reports, a fan jumped up onstage where a tussle ensued in which the fan, known only as Daniel N, was injured. N, who fell from the stage and hit his head on the venue's concrete floor, later died, reportedly as a result of those injuries. He was released on Friday (August 3).

Now safely back in his home in Richmond, Virginia, the singer has issued a lengthy statement in which he thanked all those who supported him during his spell in prison. He also spoke about the charge and said that he believes he is "100% innocent" of the charge, which he also labeled as "ludicrous".

Writing about the manslaughter charge, Blythe said: "If it is deemed necessary for me to do so, I will return to Prague to stand trial. While I maintain my innocence 100%, and will do so steadfastly, I will not hide in the United States, safe from extradition and possible prosecution.

He continued: "I am charged with maliciously causing severe bodily harm to this young man, resulting in his death. While I consider the charge leveled against me ludicrous and without qualification, my opinion makes no difference in this matter. The charge exists, and for the family of this young man, questions remain. The worst possible pain remains. It is fairly common knowledge amongst fans of my band that I once lost a child as well. I, unfortunately, am intimately familiar with what their pain is like."

He continued further: "This family needs and deserves some real answers, not a media explosion followed by the accused killer of their son hiding like a coward thousands of miles away while they suffer. I am a man. I was raised to face my problems head on. I feel very strongly that as an adult, it would be both irresponsible and immoral for me not to return to Prague if I am summoned. I will act with honor, and I will fight to clear my good name in this matter."

Blythe faces up to 10 years in prison if found guilty. Lamb Of God have been forced to cancel the rest of their tour as a result of Blythe's arrest. You can read the full statement at Lamb Of God's official website Lamb-Of-God.com.

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