Former American Idol contestant Lakisha Jones has been found guilty of civil contempt for failing to pay her bills.

The former finalist has been ordered to turn herself into the Genesee County Jail in Michigan by 16 January (15) to serve 45 days.

Jones was scheduled to appear in court on Friday (09Jan15), but was reportedly unable to attend because she was caring for a sick child in Texas.

However, Genesee Probate Judge Jennie Barkey explained to Jones' lawyer she could avoid jail time if she agreed to pay $5,000 (GBP3,125) in bills to her father's nursing home and $2,000 (GBP1,250) in lawyer's fees.

Jones was granted guardianship of her father in 2012 after he suffered a stroke.

Part of the guardianship agreement required her to pay her father's bills.