American Idol winner Laine Hardy arrested, accused of bugging ex-girlfriend's LSU dorm room

American Idol winner Laine Hardy was arrested by LSU Police Friday after he was accused of bugging a his ex-girlfriend's dorm room with a recording device.

Hardy, 21, was booked into East Baton Rouge Parish Prison for violation of 15:1303 — interception and disclosure of wire, electronic or oral communication.

If found guilty, Hardy could face a fine of up to $10,000 and or a prison sentence of two to 10 years.

In the arrest warrant, the student told police she discovered the device on April 7 and did a Google search to discover it was a voice-activated audio recorder.

She told police Hardy admitted to her he placed the bug in her Azalea Hall dorm room.

The LSU Police investigator downloaded recordings and wrote in the warrant that he identified Hardy, who he wrote has "a very distinguishable voice."

Hardy, a Louisiana native who lives in Livingston Parish, won American Idol's 2019 crown as a teenager. He's now 21. Hardy is not an LSU student.

Hardy confirmed the investigation late Thursday on his Facebook page without revealing the nature of the accusation.

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"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 said in his Facebook post. "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."

Hardy has been embraced by fans and his home state elected officials since the American Idol run.

Gov. John Bel Edwards proclaimed "Laine Hardy Day" when the musician was named an American Idol finalist in 2019. Edwards played host to Hardy at the Governor's Mansion for an event.

Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser commissioned Hardy to be featured in a tourism marketing campaign for the state.

Hardy was also featured this year on Louisiana's New Year's Day Tournament of Roses Parade float.

In a statement to USA Today, Hardy's attorney C Frank Holthaus said, "Mr. Hardy did receive a warrant for his arrest earlier today and has been and will continue to be completely cooperative with the Baton Rouge Police Department on this matter."

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Laine Hardy arrested, accused of bugging ex-girlfriend's dorm room at LSU