New Allegations Emerge Against Brand New’s Jesse Lacey Ahead of Reunion Tour

NEW YORK — As the U.S. reunion tour for the band Brand New approaches, new allegations against lead vocalist Jesse Lacey have surfaced. A woman named Aiyana is sharing her experience, describing what she calls a “pattern of grooming” that occurred in 2006 when she was just 15 years old.

Aiyana’s account, detailed in an article titled “A Call for Accountability: Why Jesse Lacey and Brand New Should Not Be Touring Right Now,” reveals the dynamics of her interactions with Lacey during her teenage years. In 2006, she met him after a concert, which led to an online friendship where they frequently communicated through AOL Instant Messenger.

“His lyrics spoke to the vulnerability of youth, the pain of growing up, and the confusion of unrequited love,” Aiyana wrote, reflecting on how much his music meant to her at the time. She noted that the validation she felt from his attention was intoxicating, but later realized the implications of their relationship.

In her article, Aiyana recounts that after casual encounters with the band, Lacey initiated consistent communication through text messages and gaming sessions that could last for hours. “I felt like I was at the center of his world,” she said. However, she soon noticed troubling behaviors where Lacey made sexual innuendos and suggested that their connection should remain a secret.

One instance she described included receiving a text from the tour manager referencing how “cute” they were and jokingly mentioning wanting to “snuggle” on the tour bus. Such remarks, while seeming playful, left Aiyana feeling uncomfortable. “This type of push-and-pull behavior became something I recognized, where teasing was often followed by affection,” she said, expressing confusion about the boundaries of their relationship.

Aiyana emphasized that her intention in sharing her story is not to destroy Lacey but to hold him accountable. “True accountability isn’t just admitting to ‘sex addiction’ or ‘manipulation’; it’s about recognizing the full extent of harm caused and taking meaningful steps to repair it,” she stated. “Jesse has never done this.”

These allegations join previously surfaced claims from 2017, highlighting ongoing concerns around Lacey’s behavior with underage fans. With the band’s reunion tour set to begin next month, supporters are left questioning whether it is appropriate for the band to proceed with performances while such serious allegations remain unaddressed.

The growing discourse surrounding Lacey’s actions reflects a larger conversation about accountability within the music industry when dealing with allegations of inappropriate behavior. As more individuals come forward, Aiyana’s experiences urge fans and the community to reflect on the impact of celebrity culture and responsibility.