COALESCE Issue Statement Addressing Allegations Involving Guitarist JES STEINEGER

Hardcore band Coalesce have issued a public statement addressing online accusations circulating on Reddit involving guitarist Jes Steineger. The band acknowledged awareness of the claims and shared details of their own review, ultimately stating that they stand behind Steineger while also recognizing that mistakes were made.

According to Coalesce in a statement, the situation stems from an inappropriate but mutual email exchange between Steineger and a 24-year-old student at the university where he was teaching earlier this year. Coalesce emphasized that the situation was handled internally and that their position was formed only after reviewing all available documentation and correspondence.

Coalesce also acknowledged concerns surrounding power dynamics in academic settings, while also asserting that the online narrative has expanded beyond what they believe the evidence supports.

Coalesce wrote: “We’re aware of a Reddit post and related comments making accusations toward our guitarist Jes and, by extension, the band. Earlier this year, Jes informed us that he had engaged in a mutual but inappropriate email exchange with a 24-year-old student at his university. Given the obvious concerns around power dynamics, we asked to review all correspondences and evidence. We went through everything thoroughly.

“The physical contact that has been referenced publicly consisted of consensual interactions, which included student-initiated ‘pinky swears’ and two non-sexual hugs, after which he did not pursue or encourage any further physical contact. Nothing resembling sexual misconduct, predation, or assault occurred. No sexually explicit images or materials were exchanged or solicited.

“Jes has consistently acknowledged fault for initiating private email contact and for not immediately alerting the university, which contributed to his personal resignation from the academy.

“This matter arose in an academic context, and while Jes is a member of Coalesce, no band-related status, access, or influence played any role in what occurred. There was also no quid pro quo conduct in his role as her professor. The documentation shows that the interaction was mutual, that the student’s attraction pre-dated these events, and it ended when Jes withdrew consent to pursue anything inappropriate.

“Jes fucked up. He has repeatedly owned his part. But the narrative now being circulated goes far beyond the facts. After reviewing the evidence ourselves, we stand behind Jes and reject these mischaracterizations.”