CONTENT WARNING: The following article discusses allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse
The F.B.I. have reportedly opened an inquiry into Ryan Adams’ communication with an underage fan.
The New York Times reported yesterday that Adams had shared inappropriate conversations with a girl who was 14 years old at the time and continued to do so until she was 16. The bombshell report also outlined allegations of abuse from a number of women including his ex-wife Mandy Moore and singer Phoebe Bridgers.
According to the Times, the report has prompted the F.B.I. to open an inquiry whether Adams committed a crime by engaging in sexual conversations with an underage girl.
While the pair never met in person, they allegedly shared text messages containing sexually explicit conversations and at least once instance where Adams allegedly exposed himself to the girl over a Skype video call.
The Crimes Against Children Squad’s agents are seeking to interview the now 20 year old woman to try and obtain the text messages or any other evidence she may have.
The New York Times report that if the authorities find her account to be credible, further investigative measures will be taken.
United States federal law bars sexual exploitation of children under 18 and defines a violator as someone who “persuades, induces, entices or coerces any minor to engage in” sexually explicit conduct.
The Times say that legal experts weighing in have said decisions on whether to prosecute can hinge on whether the adult ‘reasonably believed’ the minor was of a legal age.
Adams has denied all allegations both on Twitter and through his lawyer Andrew B. Brettler. “Mr. Adams unequivocally denies that he ever engaged in inappropriate online sexual communications with someone he knew was underage.
“If, in fact, this woman was underage, Mr. Adams was unaware,” he said. Brettler also said that he had not been contacted by law enforcement.
If you need assistance, 1800 RESPECT – the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service — can be reached on 1800 737 732.
For help or information regarding mental health, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
