Randy Madden, a former contestant on “American Idol,” has been taken into custody on suspicions of engaging in illegal sexual activities with a minor.
The 45-year-old was arrested in Ventura County, California, on July 21, facing six felony charges, as reported by documents accessed by Fox News Digital.
The charges against him include offenses related to underage individuals, the sending of harmful substances, and attempts to dissuade witnesses from reporting crimes.
Madden has entered a not-guilty plea to all accusations.
The arrest was made by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office. Following his arrest, he posted bail and was released on November 4. He’s expected to appear in court on November 13.
During his audition for Season 8, Madden performed Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer,” but, interestingly, he did not receive a favorable response from the judges.
Notably, he hasn’t replied to requests for comment from Fox News Digital.
He’s not the only participant from “American Idol” entangled in legal issues recently. Another former contestant, Benjamin Glaze, drew attention in 2018 when he received an unexpected kiss from Katy Perry during his audition. However, he faced legal troubles last year in Oklahoma, where he was arrested for allegedly possessing child sexual abuse material.
According to the Tulsa Police Department, Glaze was found with such material in April 2024 after authorities received a tip regarding illicit activities involving him. The police’s specialized unit executed a search warrant at Glaze’s home, where they discovered a smartphone containing over 700 images and videos related to child sexual abuse.
An arrest warrant for Glaze was issued on October 18, 2024, leading to his capture by the authorities.
Back in 2018, Glaze, who was 19 at the time, had performed for judges Katy Perry, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie.
