Palm Desert, California – The drummer for the indie rock band the New Pornographers, Joseph Seiders, is facing serious charges of possession of child pornography after being arrested for allegedly videotaping unsuspecting boys in a local Chick-fil-A restroom. The 44-year-old musician pleaded not guilty to the charges, including felony child pornography possession, misdemeanor annoying a child under 18, concealing a camera with intent to invade privacy, and attempting to conceal a camera.
Seiders was taken into custody by Riverside County sheriff’s deputies on April 11, just two days after the disturbing incident at the fast-food restaurant on Dinah Shore Drive in Palm Desert. The band, based in Canada, wasted no time in announcing that Seiders was no longer part of the group following his arrest.
According to authorities, Seiders was recognized by staff at Chick-fil-A after a second incident where he allegedly entered the restroom while juveniles were present. The first incident occurred on April 7 when an 11-year-old boy reported being recorded on a cellphone while using the restroom. Investigators found evidence at Seiders’ residence, vehicle, and cellphone linking him to the reported incidents, as well as possessing child pornography.
Seiders remains in custody at the John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio on $1 million bail, with prosecutors describing the victim as “particularly vulnerable” and the crime as showing “planning sophistication and professionalism.” The band released a statement expressing shock and devastation over the charges against Seiders, severing all ties with him and offering support to those impacted by his actions.
Riverside County sheriff’s investigators are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that there may be additional victims. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the crimes Seiders is accused of committing. For those with pertinent information, contacting investigators or sheriff’s dispatch is encouraged to assist in the case.