'70s Rock Stars Accused Of Serious Crimes

Kiss became a quintessential 1970s arena rock band thanks to a unique hook. Its members took on the personas of mythical characters, donning costumes and wearing makeup. Alongside Paul Stanley (Starchild), Gene Simmons (The Demon), and Peter Criss (The Cat), Ace Frehley (The Spaceman) played lead guitar on Kiss rockers like "Detroit Rock City," "Rock 'N' Roll All Nite," and "Plaster Caster." According to Guitar World, Stanley and Simmons fired Frehley from Kiss in the early 1980s for his unreliability, brought on by substance abuse issues.

In May 1983, Frehley was driving his DeLorean in White Plains, New York, when he got involved in a small wreck. As he argued with the driver of the other vehicle, police arrived, prompting Frehley to flee. A high-speed pursuit ensued, during which Frehley reached speeds of 90 mph — nicking other cars along the way — then drove around a roadblock before he abandoned the car and was arrested while on foot. Frehley was charged with drunken and reckless driving but was quickly released after making bail. 

Frehley was sentenced to five years of probation and a suspended license after entering a guilty plea. Two years after that incident, Frehley was arrested again. He and his wife, Jenette, were charged with criminal possession of forged instruments after they were caught allegedly attempting to buy a controlled substance with a phony prescription.

If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA's National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

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