Country singer John Rich turned himself into Nashville police related to allegations that he smacked former Nashville Star contestant and singer Jared Ashley in the face.
The charges stem from a fight that erupted on March 13, 2009, when Ashley entered The Spot, Rich’s private Nashville club. According to the criminal complaint, Rich hit Ashley in the face.
Jared Ashley and John Rich
John Rich denies the charges. Jared Ashley sued John Rich in April related to the alleged incident, and John Rich counter-sued Jared Ashley for defamation.
Jared Ashley was featured as a contestant on Nashville Star 4 in Spring 2006. John Rich, as part of the singing duo Big and Rich, was a judge on the premiere and finale episodes that season.
Regarding the latest allegations, John’s attorney released the following statement: “This entire ridiculous situation is nothing more than an effort by singer Jared Ashley, and music row attorney Chris Sevier, to try to obtain money from me. Mr. Sevier and Mr. Ashley have falsely accused me of misdemeanor crimes. I trust that the truth will come out through the process of our American justice system and that I will be completely exonerated at the end of the day.”
John tied the knot in December 2008 with Joan Bush, his girlfriend of five years.
