Bailey Zimmerman Issues Statement After Criminal Charges, Says He’s ‘Taking This Legal Matter Seriously’

Zimmerman is apologizing to the Pueblo of Sandia, a federally recognized Indian Tribe, and to his fans.

By

Lauren Jo Black

| Posted on

June 23, 2026

at

4:00 pm

Share on:

Bailey Zimmerman; Photos Provided

Bailey Zimmerman is speaking out after criminal charges were filed against him in the state of New Mexico following an alleged incident in which he reportedly destroyed a hotel room, causing an estimated $16,000 in damages.

In a statement obtained by TMZ, Zimmerman apologized to both the Pueblo of Sandia, a federally recognized Indian Tribe, and his fans, and said he is “taking this legal matter seriously.”

“First things first, I want to apologize to the Pueblo of Sandia and to everyone at Sandia Resort & Casino. I never meant for any of this to come across as disrespectful. I am deeply sorry for my actions that transpired,” Zimmerman began. “I respect your community and the hospitality and appreciate the opportunity that was given to me to perform on Native Land. I take full accountability for everything that happened and I am sorry to anyone who feels hurt or disrespected.”

Bailey Zimmerman; Photo Provided
Bailey Zimmerman; Photo Provided

Zimmerman also expressed regret over the events that led to him canceling his performance, acknowledging that he let fans down both by his actions and the cancellation.

“To my fans who bought tickets and showed up expecting a performance, I am so sorry, you deserved better from me. I understand that being a musician comes with big responsibilities, both on and off stage, and I know that I fell short that day. I am reflecting on the disappointment and concern that I caused,” he continued.

“I am taking this legal matter seriously. I am committed to doing the work necessary to learn and grow. Thank you to my fans for holding me accountable and for understanding that I am human. I do not take your support for granted.”

Photo Courtesy of Bailey Zimmerman
Photo Courtesy of Bailey Zimmerman

TMZ first reported that a warrant had been issued for Zimmerman’s arrest in New Mexico, where he is facing both felony and misdemeanor charges.

The charges stem from an incident on May 27 at the amphitheater at Sandia Resort and Casino in Albuquerque, where Zimmerman allegedly went on a “bender” and later “trashed” his hotel room. He subsequently canceled his scheduled performance that night and was removed from the resort.

Reports also allege the singer appeared intoxicated throughout the evening and behaved erratically during soundcheck, including “stumbling, falling, and acting belligerently,” as well as throwing equipment.

Photo Courtesy of Bailey Zimmerman
Photo Courtesy of Bailey Zimmerman

Zimmerman, 26, allegedly stormed off stage and, while being transported back to the resort, spit in the direction of a security officer and complained about being driven in a white SUV instead of a black one. He was later returned to the resort, where he reportedly continued stumbling and had to be supported by a member of his team while walking through a hallway.

The resort ultimately asked him to leave, prompting law enforcement to be called to escort him off the property.

According to documents, housekeeping staff later discovered the hotel room had been significantly damaged, with estimated losses exceeding $16,000. Reported damage included a television, phone, coffee table, and two chairs, along with a hole in one wall, additional property damage throughout the room, carpet stains, and two missing chairs.

The hotel also alleges Zimmerman charged more than $400 in alcohol to the room that was never paid. Court documents state that both resort staff and law enforcement attempted to reach Zimmerman and his team, but were reportedly unsuccessful, which ultimately led to the issuance of the arrest warrant.

Zimmerman canceled that night’s performance, as well as a scheduled show in Rohnert Park, California on May 30, later telling fans he was ill and unable to perform.

Share on:

Lauren Jo Black

Written by

Lauren Jo Black

Lauren Jo Black, a University of Central Florida graduate, has immersed herself in the world of country music for over 15 years. In 2008, she co-founded CountryMusicIsLove, eventually selling it to a major record label in 2015. Following the rebranding of the website to Sounds Like Nashville, Black served as Editor-in-Chief for two and a half years. Currently, she assumes the role of Editor-in-Chief at Country Now and oversees Country Now’s content and digital footprint. Her extensive experience also encompasses her previous role as a Country Music Expert Writer for Answers.com and her work being featured on Forbes.com. She’s been spotlighted among Country Aircheck’s Women of Influence and received the 2012 Rising Star Award from the University of Central Florida. Black also spent time in front of the camera as host of Country Now Live, which brought live music directly to fans in 2021 when the majority of concerts were halted due to the pandemic. During this time, she hosted 24 weeks of live concerts via Country Now Live on Twitch with special guests such as Lady A, Dierks Bentley, Jordan Davis, Brett Young, and Jon Pardi. Over the course of her career, she has had the privilege of conducting interviews with some of the industry’s most prominent stars, including Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Lainey Wilson, and many others. Lauren Jo Black is a longtime member of the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.