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'American Idol' Winner Laine Hardy Charged After Allegedly Putting Secret Recording Device In Ex's Dorm Room
Laine Hardy, who won "American Idol" in 2019, has been booked on a charge of intercepting communications by Louisiana State University police.
“American Idol” winner Laine Hardy has turned himself in after being accused of sneaking a recording device into an ex's university dorm room.
Hardy, 21, turned himself into the Louisiana State University Police Department on Friday after a warrant was issued one day prior, WAFB reports.
He has been booked on a charge of intercepting communications.
“Hardy was arrested by LSU Police today and booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison for violation of 15:1303 - Interception and Disclosure of Wire, Electronic, or Oral Communication,” LSU spokesman Ernie Ballard told WAFB on Friday. Ballard has not immediately responded to Oxygen.com’s request for comment.
Police were notified after a woman and her roommate allegedly found a recording device hidden under a futon inside their LSU dorm room on April 6. The device apparently resembled a phone charger. Police allegedly found at least 10 days worth of secret recordings on the device, captured in February, WAFB reports.
The woman had previously dated Hardy.
If convicted, Hardy could face up to a $10,000 fine and up to 10 years in prison.
Hardy is best known for winning season 17 of “American Idol” in 2019. The Louisiana native, who has put out songs “Memorize You” and “Flame,” is also featured on the cover of Louisiana Office of Tourism’s 2022 Louisiana Inspiration Guide.
Hardy addressed the allegations on Facebook on Thursday night.
"Earlier today, I received a warrant due to allegations made against me and have been fully cooperative with the Louisiana State University Police Department,” he wrote. “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. However, due to the sensitive nature of this allegation, I humbly ask for privacy at this time. I have the utmost respect for the law and will assist in their investigation as needed moving forward.”
