Guitarist Of Melbourne Band Alpine Charged For Alleged Sexual Assault Of Teenager

CONTENT WARNING: This article contains discussion of sexual assault. If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.

Christian O'Brien, guitarist of Melbourne band Alpine, has been charged for allegedly sexually assaulting a teenager under the age of 16. 

As Brisbane Times reports, court documents released in Melbourne Magistrates Court earlier this week claim that O'Brien allegedly "intentionally sexually touched the complainant, a child under the age of 16, in circumstances where the touching was contrary to community standards of acceptable conduct".

The incident allegedly occurred in Melbourne's CBD on 2 August last year. 

Police have reportedly appealed for public information regarding the alleged incident since January.

"The accused has been identified as the offending male as a result of a media release being circulated," the court document reads.

"Upon the media release being circulated, the accused has subsequently fled Melbourne to Brisbane in a bid to avoid apprehension. The accused is failing to engage with investigators and investigators believe he is likely to flee the country."

O'Brien features on Alpine's two studio albums - 2012 debut A Is For Alpine and 2015's Yuck.

After an extended hiatus, the band returned in 2019 with the single, Dumb.

In a statement given to The Music today, the remaining members of the Melbourne-founded group have addressed the allegations and stated that the band disbanded last year.

"We are deeply concerned and saddened by these allegations. Any matter of sexual assault is an extremely serious one, however, as the matter is still before the courts we are advised that we are unable to provide further comment at this time," the statement reads.

"Our thoughts are with those involved and hope all parties have the privacy and support required to deal with this devastating matter. The band disbanded in 2019 and will not be releasing music or playing shows in the future. It is very disappointing to announce this news in this way to our fans.

"A reminder that help is available on 1800 RESPECT, Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14 if you need any support on such affecting issues."

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