Please be aware that this article contains detailed descriptions of alleged sexual misconduct.
Justin Sane, a member of the band Anti-Flag, is currently facing a lawsuit that alleges he sexually assaulted a fan back in 2010. The accuser, Kristina Sarhadi, claims that Sane not only strangled her but also subjected her to oral sex against her will before raping her when she was just 21 years old. Sarhadi officially filed the lawsuit on November 23, 2023, invoking New York’s Adult Survivors Act and requesting a jury trial to address the allegations.
In a statement released by Sarhadi, she accuses Justin Geever, also known as Justin Sane, of abusing his position as a celebrated “punk rockstar” to manipulate and entice vulnerable young women into feeling secure around him. She points out the stark contradiction between his public image, where he sang about protecting women and confronting abusers, and his alleged behavior, which seems to have been characterized by a thirst for power and control, causing harm to numerous women who had previously remained silent. Sarhadi’s hope, she says, is to inspire survivors, not only of Sane but of other predators within the music industry, to regain a sense of hope and to break their silence. She acknowledges that the damage inflicted by sexual predators can never truly be undone, but she believes that victims should no longer suffer in silence.
Kristina Sarhadi, a holistic therapist and health coach in New York, initially came forward with her allegations, which ultimately contributed to the breakup of the band Anti-Flag. The lawsuit not only targets Justin Sane but also includes Hardwork Distribution, Inc., the distribution arm of Anti-Flag’s label, A-F Records, and an unnamed individual referred to as “Doe.” (Newsound has reached out to former band members of Anti-Flag for comments and clarification regarding their roles at Hardwork.) The lawsuit contends that both Hardwork and the unnamed defendant should have been aware of Justin Sane’s alleged pattern of engaging in sexual misconduct with young women and underage girls across the country, particularly in motel settings, and that they had a responsibility to protect potential victims.
According to the lawsuit, Sarhadi initially met Justin Sane after an Anti-Flag concert in 2010. She claims that, despite her repeated assertions that she was in a committed relationship, he persistently engaged in a “flirty” conversation with her. Sane allegedly extended an invitation to a film festival the following week, and, believing in his professed feminist principles, Sarhadi agreed. She felt reassured by his apparent sincerity, especially considering he was involved in a serious relationship himself.
After attending Justin Sane’s performance at the film festival, Sarhadi asserts that he invited her to an afterparty. During the drive, she states that she once again emphasized her committed relationship. Upon the conclusion of the party, the lawsuit alleges that Sane invited her to his motel room, under the pretext of allowing her to be the first to hear a new song. Trusting him due to their previous conversations and his personal disclosures about his nephew’s death and alleged partner infidelity, Sarhadi agreed.
This lawsuit brings to light deeply troubling allegations that underscore the importance of addressing issues of consent and abuse within the music industry and beyond. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains crucial to respect the rights of both the accuser and the accused, ensuring a fair and thorough examination of the facts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Allegations
What are the allegations against Justin Sane?
Justin Sane, a member of the band Anti-Flag, is facing allegations of sexual assault dating back to 2010. The accuser, Kristina Sarhadi, claims that he strangled her, forced her into oral sex, and raped her when she was 21 years old.
When was the lawsuit filed?
The lawsuit was officially filed on November 23, 2023, under New York’s Adult Survivors Act.
What is the Adult Survivors Act?
The Adult Survivors Act is a legal provision in New York that extends the statute of limitations for survivors of sexual abuse, allowing them to bring lawsuits against their alleged abusers even after many years have passed since the incidents.
Who else is named in the lawsuit?
In addition to Justin Sane, the lawsuit also names Hardwork Distribution, Inc., which is the distribution arm of Anti-Flag’s label, A-F Records, as well as an unnamed individual referred to as “Doe.”
What does the lawsuit allege regarding Hardwork Distribution and the unnamed defendant?
The lawsuit alleges that both Hardwork Distribution and the unnamed defendant “knew or should have known” about Justin Sane’s alleged pattern of sexual misconduct with young women and underage girls across the country, particularly in motel settings. It argues that they had a duty to protect potential victims.
What led to the breakup of the band Anti-Flag?
Kristina Sarhadi’s initial allegations contributed to the breakup of the band Anti-Flag.
What is the significance of this lawsuit?
This lawsuit sheds light on serious allegations within the music industry and underscores the importance of addressing issues of consent and abuse. It also highlights the power of survivors speaking out and seeking justice.
How should these allegations be handled legally?
It’s crucial to respect the rights of both the accuser and the accused as legal proceedings unfold. The justice system will conduct a thorough examination of the facts to determine the outcome.
