According to Billboard, ex-Hatebreed bassist Chris Beattie has filed a lawsuit against the band and vocalist Jamey Jasta (James Shanahan). Beattie made the move after claiming he was removed from the group for financial reasons.
The complaint says Jasta decided to abruptly fire Beattie after accusing him of harassing a Live Nation security guard at the Toyota Oakdale Theater in Wallingford, CT. However, Beattie claims the allegations were “patently untrue.”
The suit continued:
“Despite Beattie’s denying the incident, Shanahan abruptly terminated Beattie from Hatebreed. Shanahan had structured a false narrative about Beattie — not supported by any evidence — to other band members following the Oakdale show in an effort to discredit Beattie’s reputation and persuade the other band members to justify Shanahan’s desire to kick Beattie out of the band.”
The following was also added:
“Shanahan stood to profit from Beattie’s termination, as he would be entitled to a larger share of band proceeds and profits without Beattie in the band. In addition, Beattie and Shanahan were the primary songwriters for the band and together earned the majority of publishing proceeds for their work. With Beattie out of the band, Shanahan likely believed that he could stand to recover significantly more in the way of publishing proceeds.”
The lawsuit went on to accuse Jasta of being “secretive” with the band’s finances. As such, Beattie believes he wasn’t receiving his full 25% cut. He was also allegedly denied access to the group’s balance sheets.
Beattie also lamented the “significant negative impact” the firing has had “on his career, reputation, and health and well-being.” He is currently seeking financial damages from the band and Jasta, noting that he has missed out on money due to a loss of touring profits and brand deals.
Metal Anarchy 
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