Ex-Peacemaker guitarist Joseph Schultz faces nearly 20 charges, including child and animal pornography.
Former Tactosa and Peacemaker guitarist Joseph Schultz has been arrested in Volusia County, Florida, on a series of charges, according to publicly available inmate records.
Schultz, who was quietly removed from Peacemaker two months ago, was arrested on October 17, 2025. The charges listed against him include 15 counts of possession of sexual performance by a child enhanced and five counts of possession of pornography involving animals.
Peacemaker had initially announced Schultz’s departure without offering any explanation, prompting further investigation from Lambgoat. Their research led to the Volusia County Corrections database, where Schultz’s current incarceration and the full list of allegations were confirmed. As of now, nearly 20 charges are recorded, and no bond has been granted.
Earlier today, Peacemaker issued an updated statement addressing the situation more directly. The band, which features former Heavy//Hitter drummer Jerry Gauntz, guitarist Kevin Linares, bassist Tyler Dumais, and vocalists Mark Elias and Jordan Hanley, clarified that Schultz had been removed well before the reports became public. The group’s message reads:
“Joseph Shultz is no longer a part of Peacemaker. We removed him from the lineup 2 months ago, before the recent reports surfaced. Peacemaker has always stood firmly against the vile behaviour now being alleged. Our music has never shied away from calling it out, we write about confronting and destroying it in our lyrics, and that’s woven into who we are. Our principles aren’t changing and our stance on this is permanent. We are focusing on what’s ahead and gearing up for a massive 2026. See you soon.”
The situation follows previous controversy connected to Tactosa. Ex-vocalist Kyle Weedan faced accusations of inappropriate behaviour within a past relationship, which contributed to that band’s eventual breakup. Now, Peacemaker is navigating fallout of its own as Schultz awaits further legal proceedings.
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