Former American Idol contestant Randy Madden is facing multiple felony charges after being accused of having sexual contact with a minor.
The 45-year-old’s alleged offenses reportedly occurred between July and September of this year, according to online records from the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura. TMZ first reported the news.
Court records show that Madden was charged on November 3 with unlawful sexual intercourse, anal and genital penetration by a foreign object, oral copulation of a person under 18, sending harmful matter, luring, and dissuading a witness from reporting a crime. A criminal protective order has also been issued for the alleged victim. Madden appeared in court via Zoom and pleaded not guilty to all counts.
After being booked by the Ventura County Sheriff on October 30, Madden posted $100,000 bail and was released on November 4. His next court date is scheduled for November 13.
Madden auditioned for Season 8 of American Idol, performing Bon Jovi’s “Livin’ on a Prayer” in Phoenix, Arizona, but did not receive a yes vote from any of the judges and was eliminated from the competition. Ventura County Sheriff’s records list Madden’s occupation as “disabled.”
Madden has a GoFundMe linked in his Instagram bio asking for help with living expenses, including rent, utilities, and gas. He claims he cannot walk without crutches or a cane following a motorcycle accident in September 2023 caused by brake failure. In a June 2025 update, he said he had undergone seven surgeries and anticipated needing two more to repair his leg, describing ongoing complications and his inability to work as a hairdresser.
“I’ve faced obstacles with unemployment and federal aid, and it may take months to receive assistance,” Madden wrote. “Your support can help prevent me from facing financial hardship and keep me from being homeless.”
If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) or visit rainn.org.