Metro Detroit DJ, Ignyte Events President Chad Smith accused of domestic abuse

Domestic abuse accusations against a metro Detroit DJ and events company president have sparked an outcry among musicians and, according to the company, led to the executive "stepping down" while the case is under investigation.

Chad Smith, who is known in music circles as DJ Attak, was arrested, charged with domestic violence, and held in the Oakland County Jail, according to the alternative news tabloid, the Detroit Metro Times. Smith's girlfriend, Heather Nemat, the weekly said, accused Smith of beating her.

Smith could not be reached for comment.

Nemat, who detailed her injuries on social media, said she had a swollen face, broken tooth, bruised arms and bloody fingers. She said she was thankful she was alive and safe, adding that she "will be learning to heal" physically, mentally and emotionally.

In other posts, she highlighted that the incident made the Metro Times: "All I can say is im glad my platform can be used as a safe space for other people who have dealt with similar cases.” She also thanked her followers for their support.

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Meanwhile, other artists, groups and venues, including Intersection in Grand Rapids, have distanced themselves from the DJ and the company of which he has been president, Ignyte Events, noting that they oppose violence and abuse.

Another DJ, Eptic, went so far as to state: “Hey gang, I just announced a show in Detroit a couple hours ago,” but after the charges against Smith came to light, added: “I don’t want to work with/support abusers simple as that.”

In a statement, Ignyte Events said on Facebook that Smith was "voluntarily stepping down from the team while the situation is resolved and the investigation is pending," adding that "this is the same standard we hold all of our artists to."

The post, which was signed by the company’s management team, said that it remained "committed to the safety and integrity of our community," and thanked its followers for their "patience, understanding and support. This scene means the world to us."

Contact Frank Witsil: 313-222-5022 or fwitsil@freepress.com.