Newsboys released a statement that there “hearts were shattered” in response to allegations of sexual misconduct and drug abuse against former lead singer Michael Tait.

The Roys Report indicates the allegation date back to 2004.

“Last night our hearts were shattered when we read the news,” the band’s statement read on social media. “While Michael has not addressed these allegations, we are devastated even by the implications.

“First and foremost, our hearts are with the victims who have bravely shared their stories. If you are a victim, we urge you to come forward. We absolutely do not condone any form of sexual assault.

“The four of us are husbands and fathers. Between the four of us, we have fourteen children. Our wives and children have made many sacrifices while we have dedicated our lives to playing music together that glorifies God. We are horrified, heartbroken, and angry at this report and in many ways, we feel as if we and our families have been deceived for the last fifteen years.

“When he left the band in January, Michael confessed to us and our management that he ‘had been living a double-life,’ but we never imagined that it could be this bad.”

Tait stepped down from the band in January, just days before the second half of a world tour.

According to the Roys Report, Tait “groomed and sexually assaulted numerous victims.”

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter@Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.