A jury has reached a verdict in the murder trial of a former "American Idol" contestant, CBS News reported, capping a case that drew national attention because of the defendant's brief turn on the singing competition.
The verdict was announced after jurors deliberated in the case, though the network did not immediately detail the specific charge or the sentence the defendant now faces. Court officials have not released a full statement on the outcome.
The defendant rose to public notice years ago as a contestant on "American Idol," the Fox singing competition that launched the careers of Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood. The show, which premiered in 2002, became a cultural fixture and made household names of dozens of unknown singers.
Most contestants faded from view after their auditions aired. This case is among a small number in which a former Idol participant has returned to headlines for reasons unrelated to music.
The trial has been closely followed by entertainment outlets and true-crime audiences since charges were filed. Details of the killing, the evidence presented and the defense's arguments were reported by CBS News and other outlets covering the proceedings.
Prosecutors argued the defendant committed the killing, while defense attorneys contested the state's case. Jurors weighed the evidence before delivering their decision.
A judge is expected to set a sentencing date. Penalties in murder convictions vary widely by state and by the degree of the charge.
The verdict ends the trial phase but not the legal process. Appeals are common in murder cases and can take years to resolve.
Representatives for the defendant and for prosecutors did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
"American Idol" has produced hundreds of contestants over more than two decades. A handful have faced criminal charges, drawing outsized coverage because of the show's reach.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
