Chase Matthew Speaks Out Following Band Member’s Arrest
on May 11, 2026
Chase Matthew’s Band Member Arrested
Country music singer Chase Matthew is speaking out following the arrest of one of his band members.
According to reports from Kentucky and Tennessee authorities, the individual has been arrested on serious abuse-related charges involving a minor.
Carsen Richards was taken into custody in Kentucky on Saturday (May 9) on an indictment warrant tied to charges filed in Tennessee. Authorities say the accusations include second-degree sodomy and incest involving a minor under the age of 18. The 22 year old was reportedly being held on a $75,000 cash bond following his arrest.
Richards is the singer’s music director as well.
Details Surrounding The Incident
According to court documents, the alleged incidents took place in December 2020 and again in December 2022, though the accusations were not reported to police until November 2025.
Authorities allege the victim was 12 years old at the time of the first incident in 2020. Legal filings also state the alleged victim had previously been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1 by Vanderbilt University Hospital.
Matthew is most well-known for his hits including “County Line” and “Darlin’.” He first gained attention through social media and independent releases before signing with Warner Music Nashville.
Matthew Addresses His Band Member’s Arrest
On Monday (May 11), Matthew took to social media to address the arrest. He described the situation as one of the most “shocking” and “heartbreaking” things he has ever experienced.
“When I first heard the allegations, I was sick to my stomach,” Matthew said. “I would never associate myself with a person I think could even be remotely capable of something like this, much less hire them to be on my team.”
He continued, explaining that “nothing” led him to believe Richards would have been capable of anything of the sort.
“As of his arrest this past weekend, this individual was immediately removed from the band and is no longer associated with me or my team in any capacity,” Matthew said.
The singer later stated that he does not “tolerate” behavior of that nature and emphasized that he is learning details about the case at the same time as the public.
