Rape Claims False At DMB Concert

Authorities in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., found that claims of an alleged rape outside of the grounds of the Live Nation-run Saratoga Performing Arts Center during a sold-out Dave Matthews Band concert August 14th were false following a medical examination and investigation by state police August 16th.

A 15-year-old girl had told police she was raped around 9 p.m. in the wooded area near the parking lots of the 25,000-capacity venue on the Saratoga Spa State Park side of Route 50 by a young man known only as "Shawn," according to the Saratogian.

The medical examination and investigation found the teen had had consensual sex with a 15-year-old boy. The teen who claimed to be sexually assaulted took back her accusation, according to a Saratoga County DA.

Police reported that the girl was very drunk at the concert because a 42-year-old woman had bought a bottle of vodka for herself and three other 15-year-olds, one of which was her daughter.

Lisa Vedder, who drove the girls to the show, was charged with unlawful dealing with a child.

State Park Police, who provided security around the venue, which is inside the state park, had upped their presence for the concert from 15 officers to 54, according to the Union. Two years ago, during another DMB concert, a woman was struck and killed after leaving the show and walking on Route 50.

General manager John Huff and SPAC President Marcia White released the following statement: "Live Nation and SPAC, in conjunction with New York State Park Police, remain committed to ensuring the safety of all our guests both inside the facility and throughout the Spa State Park during all concert events."