Jack Avery granted custody after ex’s alleged murder-for-hire arrest

Avery broke his silence publicly on the alleged plot.

“A few days ago, three individuals were arrested in connection with an alleged plot to kill me,” the former Why Don’t We singer wrote in an Instagram statement Thursday, May 21. “One of those individuals is the mother of my daughter.”

Avery said he and his family have endured “intense public scrutiny, false accusations, and deeply painful attacks” over the years, explaining that he chose to remain silent “out of respect for the legal process and, most importantly, for my daughter.”

“Right now, my focus is on being the best father I can be,” he continued. “I’m thankful to have sole custody of my daughter, Lavender, who is safe, healthy, and deeply loved.”

The singer added that he looks forward to “continuing to build a peaceful and stable life for her.”

Avery also thanked his family, friends, law enforcement and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office “for their support throughout this process.”

“And finally, to everyone who has supported me and withheld judgment while the truth unfolded, thank you,” he concluded. “Always seek the truth.”

The statement came days after Gabbie, Francisco and Cordrey were arrested May 18 in connection with an alleged conspiracy to kill Avery amid an ongoing custody dispute involving the former couple’s daughter.

Authorities believe the alleged plan dates back to 2021 and included efforts to surveil Avery while he was living in Hawaii. Investigators allege members of the Gonzalez family sought photographs or videos of the singer smoking or drinking that could potentially be used against him in custody proceedings.

Using information provided by Cordrey, a federal agent later allegedly posed as a hitman and participated in a phone call with Francisco, during which investigators claim payments and the intended target were discussed.

Court filings submitted Tuesday in Los Angeles Superior Court show Avery requested a domestic violence restraining order against Gabbie and asked the court to grant him “sole legal and sole physical custody” of Lavender while also requesting that Gabbie have no visitation pending further proceedings.

Avery alleged in the filing that Gabbie’s arrest, along with what he described as ongoing harassment and safety concerns, prompted the emergency request. 

“The acts of abuse described in the attached declaration have taken place in front of the minor child. Gabriela attempted to kill me by hiring a hit man. Gabriela is not stable and not able to act in the best interest of our daughter,” the filing stated.

Avery also claimed their daughter was temporarily placed with a foster family in Northern California after Gabbie’s arrest before he traveled to pick her up himself.

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