AC/DC star back in court after potential sentence violation

AC/DC DRUMMER Phil Rudd could face jail time if he is found to have breached the terms of his home detention sentence.

Former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd leaves the District Court where he was recalled for violating the conditions on his sentence of 8 months home detention in Tauranga, New Zealand on August 3, 2015. The 60-year-old was sentenced to 8 months home detention after he pleaded guilty to drugs charges and threatening to kill. One week after the start of his sentence he was re-arrested after allegedly breaching an alcohol ban at his house. He has been asked to return to court for a trial on November 24th 2015. AFP PHOTO/MARTY MELVILLE

AC/DC DRUMMER Phil Rudd pleaded not guilty to breaching the rules of his home detention sentence by drinking alcohol.

A New Zealand judge allowed Rudd to remain in home confinement on bail pending a November hearing on the possible breach.

The 61-year-old Australian-born drummer could face further sanctions, including jail time, if the judge concludes Rudd was in breach of his conditions. However, drinking alcohol would likely be considered on the lower end of potential breaches.

Back in court ... Former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd and his lawyer Craig Tuck during his sentencing in Tauranga District Court, New Zealand. Picture: AAP Image/Geraldine Clermont

Rudd was sentenced to eight months of home confinement on July 9 after pleading guilty to threatening to kill a former employee and possessing methamphetamine and marijuana.

Rudd acknowledged in a court summary of facts that he’d offered cash, vehicles and a house to an associate after asking him to have the victim “taken out”. He also acknowledged that he’d directly said to the victim he was going to kill him.

Violation of sentence ... Phil Rudd leaves the District Court. Picture: AFP/Marty Melville

Dressing the part ... Rudd wears an AC/DC jacket as he enters the District Court in Tauranga, New Zealand. Picture: AFP/Marty Melville

Police then arrested Rudd at his home on July 18, accusing him of possessing and drinking alcohol. He was subsequently given a new bail condition: that he undergo drug and alcohol testing whenever police request it.

It is unclear whether Rudd has any future with AC/DC, which is currently touring with Welsh drummer Chris Slade.

Rudd’s lawyer Craig Tuck said Monday he is appealing Rudd’s convictions and sentence.

In action ... A younger Phil Rudd playing drums.

With the band ... Rudd with other AC/DC members during promotion of their album Black Ice.

Originally published as AC/DC star back in court after potential sentence violation