In his statement, the season 17 winner explains that he will be 'fully cooperative' with the authorities after he received a warrant 'due to allegations made against' him.
- Apr 29, 2022
AceShowbiz - Laine Hardy has revealed that he received a warrant from the Louisiana State University Police Department. The season 17 winner of "American Idol" shared that the warrant was filed over "sensitive" allegations.
Making use of his social media accounts on Thursday, April 28, the 21-year-old singer issued a statement that read, "Earlier today, I received a warrant due to allegations made against me." He further noted that he has been "fully cooperative with the Louisiana State University Police Department."
"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," Laine wrote. He later asked for privacy, "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."
According to an LSU official, there is an active investigation against Hardy. LSU spokesman Ernie Ballard told The Advocate that more information in the probe would be released to the public on Friday, April 29.
Many of his fans were quick to show some support in the wake of the warrant issued against him. "Laine you know you have thousands of fans and we will be beside you and behind you all the way. We love you," one fan commented on his Instagram post. Another loyal supporter chimed in, "Bless you!!!!!! You are such a nice person and do not deserve something like this to happen to you!!!!! Prayers for you!!!!!!"
Laine rose to fame after he won ABC's competition TV show in 2019. The Louisiana native, who is known for his hit songs "Memorize You" and "Flame", made headlines last September when his birthday concert, which was also a celebration of the release of his first album, "Here's to Anyone", benefited Volunteer Louisiana and The Louisiana Museum Foundation in the French Quarter in the wake of Hurricane Ida.
"Hurricane Ida hit hard in my home state. So many people have been impacted and we wanted to find a way to help," Laine said at the time. "I can't think of a better way to spend my birthday than playing a show for everyone."
Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser said, "[Laine] could have celebrated the release of his first album anywhere, but chose to celebrate at the New Orleans Jazz Museum because of his love of this state, the people and our unique culture." He added, "His desire to help his fellow Louisianans and bring awareness to the recovery efforts following Hurricane Ida truly shows the outstanding character of this young man, and further exemplifies why we are fortunate to have him represent our state."
