Vines Singer Craig Nicholls Accused Of Assaulting His Mother

Craig Nicholls, otherwise known as the leader singer of the rock outfit The Vines, has been slapped with five counts of assault after getting into a physical altercation with his parents. According to the Guardian, Nicholls became violent towards his mother on Saturday Night, ending with his eventual arrest and a slew of legal problems.

Authorities were called to the scene shortly after Nicholls allegedly punched his mother twice in the head. Although he attempted to flee the scene of the crime after assaulting his mother, he was ultimately subdued by officers. The singer didn’t go down without a fight; in order to bring Nicholls into custody, police were forced to use pepper spray to get him under control. As a result of the scuffle, one officer suffered minor injuries to his knees and elbows.

According to the AFP, Nicholls’ parents became increasingly concerned about their son’s increasing erratic behavior after a series of violent outbursts. Back in September, the Vines singer reportedly removed a pair of steak knives from a kitchen drawer and put them to his mother’s throat. After pinning her against the pantry door, Nicholls allegedly remarked, “I could stab you.” Not surprisingly, the latest incident has left the couple a little rattled.

Formed in Sydney, Australia back in 1999, The Vines soon rose to fame during the garage rock revival in the early 2000s. The band’s 2002 effort, the critically-acclaimed and multi-platinum Highly Evolved, is listed in the book 1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die. A new release from the band is expected to arrive next year.

Craig Nicholls was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome in 2004, which may have contributed to his violent outbursts. The singers also reportedly suffers from psychosis as a result of heavy marijuana use. Presently, the musician is out on bail and seeking psychological treatment. He’s expected to return to court for assaulting his mother on November 14.