Former DOGMA Guitarist Amber Maldonado Details Alleged Manipulation and Mistreatment by Band Management

Former Dogma guitarist Amber Maldonado has released a detailed new statement sharing her perspective on what she describes as years of “manipulation and emotional abuse” under the band’s management — allegations she says ultimately led to her departure from the all-female metal group.

Maldonado, known to fans as Lamia, served as the second guitarist in Dogma’s lineup. On October 26, 2025, she joined former members Patri Grief (Rusalka) and Grace Jane Pasturini (Lilith II) in publicly accusing the band’s management of “gaslighting, manipulation, and emotional abuse.” The initial statement prompted intense discussion among fans and former collaborators, and it has since been followed by multiple updates from those involved.

In the days following, additional figures came forward — including Kim Jennett, who claimed she declined an offer to become Dogma’s vocalist after being presented with what she described as an “exploitative” contract. Jennett alleged that her lawyer characterized the proposed terms as equivalent to “slave labour.”

Earlier this month, Maldonado, Grief, and Pasturini also accused management of attempting to influence Dogma’s fan community by leaking private information — actions they allege constitute violations of EU GDPR privacy laws.

Now, in a new statement shared on November 12, Maldonado has expanded on her experience, offering a firsthand account of her time in the band — from her excitement in joining to the circumstances that drove her out.

Her full statement read:

“In February 2022, I auditioned for Dogma while recovering from a finger injury. On my 25th birthday, I was told I’d made the cut. It felt like everything I’d worked for was finally paying off.”

“The first few months were full of hope. We were filming videos in Uruguay, bonding, and dreaming big. I loved my bandmates — they were talented, funny, and strong. I believed we were all in this together.”

“But soon, things changed. Members started disappearing without explanation. I’d find out someone had been replaced through a text or a social post. When I asked questions, I was told not to worry — that it wasn’t my place.”

“By the time the first album dropped in late 2023, I was the only original member left. That’s when the control became unbearable.”

“On tour, I sprained my ankle after a ramp was removed mid-show. I begged to wear lower heels, but management refused — they said it would make me look too short. I wasn’t allowed to rest, even when I was hurt. When I asked for food, I was told no. I walked to Walmart and paid for groceries myself.”

“We weren’t allowed to make basic decisions. Management dictated everything — what to wear, when to sleep, what to post. They even forbade the Brazilian tour manager from sending us daily schedules. If we didn’t know where to be, we couldn’t have any control.”

“They would berate us in front of each other, during interviews, even right before we walked on stage. The tension was constant. I felt like I was losing myself.”

“After years of psychological and physical exhaustion, I realized the dream had become a nightmare. Touring was my dream, but it wasn’t worth the stress, the fear, the loss of autonomy. I had to accept that I’d been exploited for years.”

“Leaving Dogma was the hardest choice I’ve made, but it was necessary for my health and sanity. Speaking out now is my way of reclaiming my voice and my connection to music. I hope my story helps others see that no opportunity is worth being broken down for.”

“To anyone out there in a similar situation — don’t let anyone silence you. You deserve respect, transparency, and safety. Always.”

Dogma has undergone numerous lineup changes since forming, often without official announcements. Patri Grief previously claimed she was dismissed after management failed to secure U.S. tour visas, resulting in her detention and deportation.

As of this writing, Dogma’s management has not issued a new response to Maldonado’s latest allegations. Their most recent statement, addressing the initial claims made by Maldonado, Grief, and Pasturini, was released on October 27.

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