William Francis, aka William Control (formerly of Aiden) is facing accusations of having operated a BDSM themed sex cult involving various female participants throughout the early part of the 2000s. A number of females have come forth claiming that he and others began grooming them during their teenage years to become a part of his alleged cult, with allegations of physical and emotional abuse, financial extortion and more being made.

Other extreme cases allege tattoos of his initials were to be placed above the genital area of some participants, while branding was also involved. Notably, it would appear that he waited until their legal age of consent before allegedly engaging in sexual activity with them, at least according to one of his alleged victims.

- Advertisement -

The Federal Way Police Department in Federal Way, Washington were actively investigating Francis on the claims, but have since declined to prosecute him. The Daily Beast have filed a lengthy report on the matter with the accounts of a number of Francis‘ alleged victims. You can read that over at this location.

Francis himself commented in a statement made on June 07th:

“Dear reader, I have seen the latest controversy floating around the internet regarding the same allegations from last year. The truth is: I went into the police for questioning about these allegations earlier this year. After showing the detective my side of the story, including private communication, he recommended no charges be pressed, because it was clear the behavior was consensual. I have, in the past, engaged in heavy role play and bondage relationships WITH consent. However, I do not engage in that sort of play anymore. And for anyone who feels as though I have hurt them or violated their consent, I am sorry. It won’t ever happen again. There are lots of things that have been said that are outright lies. I have never been with underage girls. I have never been involved in a “sex cult.” I work all-day every-day in the print shop or in the recording studio making stuff for the fans. I spend my evenings with my wife and son hanging out playing Nintendo or watching cartoons. I haven’t been on the road in almost a year. My life just isn’t that interesting. I’m sorry, I wish it were. Please stop harassing and sending death threats to my wife my son. That is way out of line. W”

Another statement made on June 08th found him announcing the following via Facebook:

“Dear reader, I’ve decided that in order to move forward with my life I am shutting everything down completely. There will be no pre order for the new record. I don’t want the artists on the label to be affected by my own personal shit. I’m sorry to everyone but it’s best that I focus on my family and not have any more communication with the outside world. Take care everyone. You really have made my live amazing. W”

Francis originally planned release a new album titled “Revelations” this Friday, June 22nd. It was to feature material from past EPs as well as two new tracks, though it would appear those plans have been curtailed to an extent.