Country star Bailey Zimmerman is making headlines for all the wrong reasons after prosecutors in New Mexico reportedly filed criminal charges tied to an alleged incident that occurred during his postponed Albuquerque tour stop.
According to court documents obtained by TMZ and reported by Taste of Country, Zimmerman is facing a felony charge of criminal damage to property and a misdemeanor charge for allegedly obtaining services without payment. The charges stem from an incident on May 27, when the singer was scheduled to perform at Sandia Resort and Casino in Albuquerque.
The allegations paint a chaotic picture of the hours leading up to the canceled show. Authorities claim Zimmerman appeared intoxicated, allegedly throwing microphones, tossing cymbals, knocking over parts of a drum kit, and repeatedly storming off stage during soundcheck. Documents also allege he became upset over transportation arrangements and spit in the direction of a security officer.
The most serious accusation centers on damage allegedly discovered after Zimmerman left the resort. Court records reportedly estimate approximately $16,000 in damages, including destruction to a television, phone, walls, carpet, and two missing chairs.
Adding to the controversy, prosecutors allege Zimmerman charged roughly $400 worth of alcohol to his room but never paid the bill.
The incident is particularly notable because Zimmerman publicly told fans he was battling an illness when he postponed the Albuquerque concert and another show scheduled for May 30. The newly surfaced allegations have raised questions among fans about what really happened behind the scenes that week.
As of now, Zimmerman's representatives have not publicly responded to the allegations. TMZ reports that Bernalillo County prosecutors filed the charges on June 18 in an effort to secure an arrest warrant.
The legal troubles arrive during what has otherwise been a busy year for the country hitmaker, who has been touring extensively on his Different Night, Same Rodeo Tour and is expected to head to Europe later this summer.
It's important to note that these are allegations contained in charging documents, and Zimmerman has not been convicted of any crime. His side of the story has not yet been publicly presented.
