Touring Musician Arrested Following Kentucky Festival Performance
Country music artist Chase Matthew’s touring bassist, Carsen Richards, has been arrested in Kentucky and charged with multiple felony offenses involving an underage victim, according to court and law enforcement records.
Richards, 22, was taken into custody in Owensboro shortly after performing at the BBQ & Barrels festival, where Chase Matthew and his band had headlined the event. Authorities confirmed the arrest happened on May 9 after local investigators coordinated with another Kentucky law enforcement agency.
Officials say Richards is facing two counts of second-degree sodomy and two counts of incest involving a person under 18 by an individual more than three years older than the alleged victim. Court records indicate the accusations are tied to incidents reportedly occurring in 2020 and 2022.
Investigation Began Months Before Arrest
According to investigators, the case began after the alleged victim’s family contacted police in late 2025. Authorities later interviewed the minor, who reportedly described incidents that allegedly happened several years earlier.
Police reportedly coordinated the arrest operation at the music festival due to concerns that Richards may have been armed. Officers waited until he left the stage before taking him into custody near the tour area.
Richards is currently being held at the Daviess County Detention Center on a $75,000 cash bond. It remains unclear whether he has entered a plea or secured legal representation.
Chase Matthew Removes Bassist From Band
Following the arrest, Chase Matthew released a public statement saying he was shocked and disturbed by the allegations. The singer stated he had no prior knowledge of the accusations and confirmed Richards had been immediately removed from the touring band.
Matthew also said he does not support or tolerate behavior of that nature and expressed sympathy for anyone affected by the case.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing the case.
