Savol not booted for beating

Apparently AI believes in redemption? People do change, I guess, although Scott still has that look about him that says he's an angry man. Daily Dish reports:

NO OUSTER FOR 'IDOL'


"American Idol" finalist Scott Savol was once arrested after a confrontation with his son's mother -- but it won't cost the singer his shot at stardom.

Although several past contestants have been booted for not disclosing arrests, Savol was "forthcoming to the 'American Idol' producers and the network regarding his misdemeanor" and "the situation did not warrant his disqualification," Fox said in a statement Thursday.

Ohio police documents posted on The Smoking Gun Web site said Savol, now 28, had a confrontation with Michele Martin in February 2001. According to a Shaker Heights Police Department report, the couple had decided to separate, but when Savol arrived at Martin's mother's home to collect his belongings, he called Martin "several vulgar names,""pulled an engagement ring off her finger" and "stated he was also going to take their son."

When Martin threatened to call police, Savol shoved her, pulled the phone from her hand and then threw it at her, striking her in the chest and causing the phone to break, the police report said.

Savol was arrested on a felony domestic violence charge but pleaded to misdemeanor disorderly conduct. He was fined $500, ordered to complete an anger management or domestic violence program, placed on a year's probation and sentenced to a suspended 20-day jail term, according to the Web site.
(Report by AP)

As a woman, I am conflicted. Should AI allow Scott to be an *idol* when part of himself as a human being is mired with a violent past? Aren't they sending the wrong message to men? "Oh, it's okay if you beat your baby's mama, that has nothing to do with your singing ability, and you were up front about it so thanks for your honesty." I think the least they should do is require him to go to anger management counselling, or something! Acknowledge the problem rather than sweeping it under the carpet, which sweeps the battered women and future battered women under that carpet too. ... hmph.