The former singing hopeful allegedly worked as a courier for a drug ring when she was arrested in Norfolk last October.
- Feb 14, 2019
AceShowbiz - Former "American Idol" contestant Antonella Barba has been officially charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine, heroin and fentanyl. The fan favorite in season 6 of the reality singing competition series was arrested in Norfolk, Virginia in October 2018 on a felony charge of heroin distribution.
According to newly unsealed court documents, the 32-year-old was trying to deliver almost two pounds of fentanyl. She allegedly worked as a courier for a large scale drug ring when she was arrested four months ago. She was indicted last week on 11 federal charges, including 10 counts of distribution or possession of cocaine, heroin and fentanyl with the intent to distribute.
Antonella was initially arrested for allegedly selling or intending to sell 100 grams or more of heroin. She pleaded not guilty to that charge. She was released on bond while waiting trial on the felony heroin distribution charge. Antonella, who now lives in Los Angeles, returned to custody on Monday until a hearing on February 14 in U.S. District Court in Norfolk.
The indictment alleges that Antonella was one of several members of a drug conspiracy that was active in Hampton Roads between late 2017 and the fall of 2018.
Antonella was previously arrested in December 2010 in New York City for allegedly shoplifting in an Urban Outfitters outlet. She was reportedly caught attempting to smuggle a pair of gloves. She was charged with two misdemeanors for shoplifting and was required to complete a day of community service.
The New Jersey native was in the top 16 of "American Idol" season 6, which saw Jordin Sparks as the winner. After getting eliminated from the show, she returned to college and earned her architecture degree.
Antonella continued to pursue her singing career, saying in 2009 that she was working on a debut studio album. She began releasing original music in 2010. In 2012, she competed in an episode of "Fear Factor".
