Line Hardy, winner of “American Idol” Season 17, was arrested Friday by Louisiana State University Police.
Hardy, 21, was jailed in East Baton Rouge for violating 15: 1303 – for intercepting wire, electronic or oral communications. If convicted, he could face a fine of up to $ 10,000 or two to 10 years in prison.
The student told police he discovered the device on April 7 and did a Google search to find out if it was a voice-activated audio recorder. The student told police he believed Hardy had put the bug in there.
Hardy is a Louisiana native living in Livingston Parish. He is not an LSU student.
The “Idol” star confirmed that he had a warrant for his arrest In a Facebook post On Thursday, an incident of “sensitivity nature” occurred on LSU’s premises, excluding details.
“Earlier today, I received a warrant for the charges against me, and I fully cooperated with the Louisiana State University Police Department,” Hardy wrote. “I understand that my career has pushed me into the public light, and I accept it wholeheartedly because my whole world belongs to my music and my fans.”
He continued, “However, due to the sensitivity of this accusation, I humbly request privacy at this time.”
“I have great respect for the law and will help them move forward with their investigation as needed,” he said.
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In a statement to USA Today, Hardy’s lawyer, C. Frank Holdas, said, “Mr Hardy received a warrant for his arrest earlier today and is cooperating fully with the Louisiana State University Police Department in this matter.”
Ernie Ballard, a university representative, confirmed to USA TODAY an “active investigation”.
Hardy rose to fame after winning “American Idol” in 2019. It marks the end of a long journey of singing competition for Livingston, Louisiana native, who previously competed on the show in 2018, but was eliminated from the top 50.
He did not want to try “Idol” again in 2019, but was forced to sing for the referees again when he went with his friend Ashton Gill on guitar in his audition. Although Gill did not make it to Hollywood, Hardy took his Golden Ticket to victory, winning young and old fans with his throwback song selections and Swaker like Elvis Presley.
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“I was reluctant to take the Golden Ticket (to Hollywood) and then I thought I’d try it again and see how far it could go,” Hardy told USA TODAY following his success. “Throughout the season I had second thoughts about it because it was so hard, but I kept doing what I was doing; I was stressed every day and pulling at it.”
Contributed by: Patrick Ryan, USA TODAY
“Lifelong social media lover. Falls down a lot. Creator. Devoted food aficionado. Explorer. Typical troublemaker.”