AceShowbiz -

Phil Rudd is no longer facing a murder-for-hire charge in New Zealand. His lawyer Paul Mabey QC said on Friday afternoon, November 7 local time that the charge of attempting to procure murder against the AC/DC drummer had been withdrawn by the Crown solicitor because of insufficient evidence. A spokesperson for the Crown Solicitor Greg Hollister-Jones also confirmed the news.

"The decision to charge Mr Rudd was made by the New Zealand Police without consultation with the Tauranga Crown solicitor," the lawyer said, as quoted by Stuff.co.nz. "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."

Rudd appeared in Tauranga District Court on Thursday and was released on bail. His other charges which include threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana remain.

AC/DC, whose new album "Rock or Bust" is set to be released next month, said in a statement earlier that day that their plans for the new album and tour would not be affected by Rudd's legal problem. "We've only become aware of Phil's arrest as the news was breaking. We have no further comment," the Australian rock band said. "Phil's absence will not affect the release of our new album 'Rock or Bust' and upcoming tour next year."