Former ‘Idol’ Contestant Ron Bultongez Arrested for Alleged Sex with Minor
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Ron Bultongez has been arrested for allegedly having sex with a minor, according to TMZ. The former American Idol contestant appeared on Season 16 and made it through to the Top 24. He now faces multiple counts of alleged sex with a minor in Grapevine, Texas.
Ron was arrested after turning himself in on July 15. Law enforcement officials are still gathering details regarding the case. The Tarrant County district attorney has charged Ron with four counts of alleged sexual penetration of a minor under the age of 17. The incidences supposedly took place between December 2020 and February 2021.
Bultongez was released from custody just a couple of days later. He also posted a $50,000 bond and is now awaiting a court appearance.
Ron Bultongez on American Idol
In 2018, Bultongez auditioned for season 16 of American Idol. He shared is backstory of being a refugee from The Congo and making his way to America. Bultongez also showcased his newborn son in his video package preceding the audition. He sang “Let It Go” by James Bay, in front of the judges. Bultongez received a “no” vote from Katy Perry and Lionel Richie on the case of his “lack of identity.” Later on, Richie thought it over and changed his vote to a yes, sending him on to the next round.
The decision allowed him to perform in Hollywood Week. In the interview before his performance, the singer revealed that he had just become the sole guardian of his two younger brothers. He dedicated the performance to his family, before singing Phillip Phillip’s “Home” in the solo rounds.
The details regarding Ron Bultongez’s arrest are still being uncovered. More updates on his alleged crimes will follow.