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By BRIAN GIFFIN

THE guitarist and founder of Indiana metal band Iced Earth, Jon Schaffer, has issued a lengthy statement regarding his involvement in the riot at the US Capitol in 2021.

Schaffer, who was identified by fans in footage of the attack and who surrendered two days later, has admitted it was wrong to have taken part in the action and expressed regret for his involvement.

“When the global pandemic came upon us, and chaos ensued all around the US in 2020,” says the statement, in part, “I was very concerned about what seemed to be a collapse of our country and the rule of law. When the 2020 election took place and I saw many public officials and media outlets reporting that the election was stolen, my concern deepened. This led to my decision to go to D.C. and have my voice heard. I’m not excusing my impulsive behavior. I was wrong, and I take ownership of my actions.”

Schaffer has been sentenced to three years probation and 120 hours community service. Immediately following his arrest, Iced Earth disbanded and were dropped by Century Media.

Read the full statement at Metal Addicts.

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Brian Giffin

Author Brian Giffin

Brian Giffin is a metalhead, author, writer and broadcaster from the Blue Mountains in Australia. His life was changed forever after seeing a TV ad for 'The Number of the Beast' in 1982. During the 90s he wrote columns and reviews for Sydney publications On the Street, Rebel Razor, Loudmouth and Utopia Records' magazine. He was the creator and editor of the zine LOUD! which ran from 1996 until 2008, and of Loud Online that lasted from 2010 until 2023 when it unexpectedly spontaneously combusted into virtual ashes. His weekly community radio show The Annex has been going since 2003 on rbm.org.au. He enjoys heavy rock and most kinds of metal (except maybe symphonic power metal), whisk(e)y and beer.

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