NEEDTOBREATHE’s Bear Rinehart Responds to Brother’s Allegations, Reveals Shared Childhood Trauma

Bear Rinehart, frontman of Grammy-nominated rock band NEEDTOBREATHE, has issued a public statement following serious allegations made by his younger brother and former bandmate Bo Rinehart. Bo recently shared that he experienced sexual, physical, and emotional abuse as a child, naming Bear as one of the perpetrators alongside a youth pastor and a counselor.

In a heartfelt and emotional response, Bear categorically denied abusing his brother and shared that both he and Bo were sexually abused during childhood by a teenage counselor at a Christian summer camp. Bear stated the abuse began when he was 8 and Bo was 6.

"We were both victims of something no child should endure," Bear wrote. "We didn't know how to speak about it or how to heal from it, and for decades, we navigated our pain without support."

Bear expressed sorrow over the situation, acknowledging the deep wounds and complexities of their shared past. "I love my brother deeply. I want healing for him, and for our entire family," he added. "But I cannot remain silent when false claims are made about me. It's important that the truth be known."

Bo Rinehart, who left NEEDTOBREATHE in 2020, has since launched a solo career under the name Coy Roy. His recent social media post drew wide attention, where he shared his journey of healing and encouraged others to seek help for past abuse.

Bear concluded his statement by asking for privacy and prayers as the family continues to process and seek healing.

"This is a painful chapter in our family's story," Bear said. "But I believe truth, compassion, and love can still guide us forward."

 

 

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