American Idol Star's Criminal Past Comes Back to Haunt Him  4/5/05

The current season of TV talent show American Idol continues to be marred with controversy following the announcement that one of this year's finalists has a criminal record. 

After a telephone voting mishap and two walk-outs, Idol bosses have confirmed that chubby Ohio-based singer Scott Savol was once arrested for throwing a phone at his ex-girlfriend. But, though past contestants have been kicked off the show for not disclosing arrests, Idol producers reveal Savol was "forthcoming" to them about his past problems and Savol will be able to continue with the show. Savol reportedly fought with Michele Martin over the couple's son in 2001, shortly after they split up. 

Police were called when the singer threw a telephone at his ex and Savol was arrested on a felony domestic violence charge but pleaded to misdemeanor disorderly conduct, was fined $500 and ordered to complete an anger management course.