‘Idol’ twins charged with forgery, theft

Derrell, Terrell Brittenum accused of stealing man's identity to buy a car

Interactive

Simon says
Sometimes the best part of “American Idol” is the latest sly comment from acerbic judge Simon Cowell. Here are some of our favorites from this season.

‘American Idol’ video

Ellen DeGeneres named new ‘Idol’ judge
Sept. 10: Comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres is joining “American Idol” as the show’s fourth judge, taking Paula Abdul’s place. TODAY’s Natalie Morales reports.

What kind of ‘Idol’ judge will Ellen be?

Why Paula Abdul left ‘Idol’

Paula Abdul not returning to ‘Idol’

Adam Lambert says he’s gay

Kris, Adam reflect on ‘Idol’

Adam Lambert: ‘There’s not a conspiracy’

updated 9:44 a.m. ET Jan. 19, 2006

MEMPHIS, Tenn. - They sang like angels for their audition on Tuesday's 'American Idol' premiere, but a pair of Memphis twins may sound more like jailbirds by the time the show goes live from Hollywood.

Terrell Brittenum, 28, has been in jail since Jan. 10 on an outstanding warrant for charges related to the illegal purchase of a car in Rockdale County, Ga., east of Atlanta.

He and his brother, Derrell, are accused of using another man's identity to buy a 2005 Dodge Magnum in June.

Story continues below ↓

advertisement | your ad here

Derrell was expected to turn himself in on the same charges of forgery, theft by deception and financial identity fraud, The Commercial Appeal newspaper reported.

The brothers auditioned together in September for the hit TV show 'American Idol' and impressed the show's prickly judges to continue to the next round. Segments of the show have already been recorded and will air during the next few weeks.

Fox Broadcasting Co. refused to discuss the Brittenums or their status on the show.