Joseph Seiders, best known as the drummer for acclaimed indie rock band The New Pornographers, was arrested in Palm Desert, California, on April 9, 2025, on multiple charges related to child pornography and invasion of privacy. The arrest follows two disturbing incidents at a Chick-fil-A restaurant in the Coachella Valley, where Seiders allegedly recorded minors in the restroom.
According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the investigation began on April 7 when an 11-year-old boy reported that an unknown man had used a cell phone to record him while he was in the bathroom. Two days later, restaurant staff alerted authorities after observing the same man entering and exiting the restroom with juvenile males on several occasions. Deputies responded quickly and identified the suspect as 44-year-old Joseph Seiders, taking him into custody at the scene.
A search of Seiders’ residence, vehicle, and cell phone uncovered digital evidence that not only corroborated the boy’s account but also revealed additional crimes, including the possession of child pornography. Seiders now faces several felony charges, including possession of a minor in a sexual act, annoying or molesting a child, invasion of privacy, and attempted invasion of privacy. He is currently being held at the John Benoit Detention Center in Indio and is scheduled for a court appearance on April 22.
Seiders joined The New Pornographers as their drummer in 2014 and has performed with numerous other artists throughout his career. In response to the arrest, The New Pornographers issued a statement expressing shock and devastation, announcing that they have immediately severed all ties with Seiders and extending their support to those impacted by his actions.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office.