AC/DC drummer’s court meltdown

AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd gestured to the media as he left Tauranga District Court after being charged with threatening to kill and possession of meth and marijuana. Picture: Getty Images
Source: Getty Images

The 60-year-old made the gesture outside the courthouse in Tauranga as he played up to the assembled media pack after appearing on charges of threatening to kill and possession of drugs.

Seconds earlier, he had theatrically clambered on to the back of one of his own security guards as the press pursued him.

Former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd climbs into his car as he leaves court. Picture: AFP
Source: AFP

He then reversed his black sports car into the path of an oncoming truck, forcing it to brake.

Earlier, a warrant for his arrest was issued when he missed his scheduled appearance at the High Court in Tauranga.

Former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd hid behind a body guard as he left court in Tauranga, New Zealand. Picture: AFP
Source: AFP

He turned up a minute later and once the hearing resumed, Justice Timothy Brewer sent the case back to the Tauranga District Court.

The move came after the most serious charge he originally faced, attempting to procure a murder, was dropped by the crown a day after it was laid.

Phil Rudd gets a piggyback ride outside court after facing charges. Picture: AFP
Source: AFP

Rudd did not enter a plea to the remaining charges of threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamine and cannabis.

Not a rock star today. Phil Rudd in the dock as he faced charges at the High Court in New Zealand. Picture: AFP
Source: AFP

Rudd will next appear in Tauranga District Court on December 2.
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