VCTMS founding member Meredith Henderson has issued a lengthy statement addressing allegations of mistreatment made by former guitarist Mike Joseph Clampitt and former touring bassist Davion Michael Cuttler.
In the statement shared on social media, Henderson apologized to former bandmates, crew members and others who were negatively affected by her behavior during her 13 years with the group.
“Hearing how my actions have negatively impacted past members, crew, and friends has been a rude awakening,” Henderson wrote. “I cannot diminish how I’ve made people feel, and I am deeply sorry to anyone I’ve hurt or disrespected in my time here.”
Henderson acknowledged that she had sometimes treated people poorly, attributing some of her behavior to burnout, stress and personal health struggles. However, she emphasized that those circumstances did not excuse her actions.
“That is entirely on me. Pouring myself into this band for 13 years doesn’t excuse operating on empty or being abrasive towards the people working for the band,” she stated.
Addressing concerns about unpaid touring personnel, Henderson said all working crew members from the band’s most recent tour had been paid. She also encouraged anyone owed money from previous tours to contact her or fellow member John Matalone directly.
Henderson also addressed the departures of Clampitt and Cuttler, saying she respected their decisions to step away.
“I never wanted to put anyone through so much grief to a point where they feel the only option is to leave,” she wrote. “Nobody deserves to feel like they have to suffer to live out their passion.”
Looking ahead, Henderson said she plans to focus on her health, continue therapy and eventually reach out privately to apologize to those she has hurt.
As for VCTMS’ future, Henderson explained that she and Matalone are equal partners in the band’s business operations and will discuss what happens next.
“I don’t have all the answers right now,” she wrote. “I have a laundry list of regrets. This was a wake up call and I know I have to earn back trust and respect—if that’s even possible.”
The statement follows allegations from Clampitt and Cuttler involving verbal mistreatment, physical aggression and payment issues during their time working with VCTMS. Henderson’s response acknowledges harmful behavior and addresses crew payments but does not specifically confirm or deny every allegation raised.
Matalone previously issued his own statement acknowledging difficulties within the band and apologizing for his handling of conflicts.
VCTMS have not announced a final decision regarding the band’s future.
