News April 29, 2022
‘American Idol’ Winner Arrested for Allegedly Putting Listening Device in Ex’s Room

“American Idol” Season 17 winner Laine Hardy has been arrested for allegedly planting a listening device inside of his ex-girlfriend’s dorm room.
In an update posted on Friday, TMZ reports that the music competition star was arrested on Friday and booked for interception and disclosure of wire, electronic, or oral communication.
Per legal documents obtained by the outlet, Hardy allegedly put a wire in his ex-girlfriend’s dorm room.
In the alleged audio, police say they can hear what sounds like Laine’s voice in the recordings.
The alleged audio also features conversations that the ex-girlfriend had with her mom about the couple’s breakup.
Previously, TMZ reported that Hardy was under “active investigation” by the Louisiana State University Police Department and that a warrant was issued for his arrest.
On Thursday, Hardy confirmed this, and added that he will be “fully cooperative” with authorities.
“I understand that my career has thrust me into the public spotlight, and I embrace that wholeheartedly as my entire world belongs to my music and my fans,” his statement read.
“However, due to the sensitive nature of this allegation, I humbly ask for privacy at this time,” he continued. “I have the utmost respect for the law and will assist in their investigation as needed moving forward."
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Hardy first auditioned for Season 16 of “American Idol,” and made it to the Top 50.
Though he did not intend to audition for Season 17, he was encouraged by judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie to give it another shot after he accompanied friend Ashton Gill to her audition.
During the finale, Hardy performed “Bring It On Home to Me” by Sam Cooke before being crowned the winner.
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