AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd is no longer charged for plotting the murder of two people, according to New Zealand Herald.
Rudd's legal representative Paul Mabey said the charge was dropped due to a lack of evidence.
"The decision to charge Mr. Rudd was made by the New Zealand Police without consultation with the Tauranga Crown solicitor," Mabey said in a statement.
He added, "Mr. Rudd has suffered unnecessary and extremely damaging publicity as a result of widespread and sensational reporting of a very serious allegation, which on any basis was never justified."
The alleged hitman has also released a statement regarding the charges, saying Rudd was a "good fella" who "had some problems," according to Australia's Herald Sun.
Answering if he has knowledge of the procurement of murder allegations, the supposed hitman said "I don't know what you're talking about."
He continued, "You've got to feel sorry for him - just the expectations everyone has of him. He's a good fella."
The Australian-born drummer was arrested in his home on Thursday for allegedly hiring a hitman to murder two people and threatening to kill, as well as for having cannabis and metampethamine in his possession, according to Mirror UK.
Meanwhile, Rudd's band AC/DC has released a statement following his arrest, reports Billboard.
"We've only become aware of Phil's arrest as the news was breaking. We have no further comment," the band's statement posted on their official website said.
The hard rock band, who is set to release their first album in six years called "Rock or Bust" on December 2, is slated to go on a world tour next year.
"Phil's absence will not affect the release of our new album 'Rock or Bust' and upcoming tour next year," the statement added.
The band has yet to release a new statement about Rudd being free from the charges earlier filed against him.
