Ex-girlfriend of boy band member charged with trying to hire a hitman to kill him
Ex-Girlfriend of Boy Band Member Charged with Hiring Hitman to Kill Him
Ex girlfriend of boy band member - A 24-year-old woman who was once in a relationship with Jack Avery, a member of the boy band Why Don’t We, faces criminal charges for allegedly attempting to hire a hitman through the dark web to eliminate him. The charges stem from a custody battle over their now 7-year-old daughter, according to prosecutors. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced the indictment on Tuesday, listing multiple offenses including attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and solicitation of murder against Gabriela Gonzalez. Her father, Francisco Gonzalez, 59, and her former partner, Kai Cordrey, 26, are also implicated in the case, sharing the same set of accusations.
The alleged plot unfolded between 2020 and 2021, with Gonzalez reportedly seeking Cordrey’s assistance to arrange the murder. Prosecutors detailed the sequence of events, noting that in April 2021, her father allegedly provided Cordrey with $10,000 as initial payment for the contract. Two months later, Cordrey reportedly requested additional funds from Francisco Gonzalez, who then contributed another $4,000. The plan, however, came to light when an undercover law enforcement officer posed as a hitman and engaged Cordrey in discussions about the target, payment, and confirmation of the deed. The officer’s interactions revealed that Avery was the intended victim, and that the conspirators were prepared to pay for his death, said prosecutors.
"This is a case where the defendants are accused of going to great lengths to find someone to commit murder," stated Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman in a press release. He emphasized that the charges followed a prolonged investigation initiated by the FBI before being handed over to the district attorney’s office. The DA’s office highlighted the meticulous nature of the plot, suggesting the defendants were determined to resolve their conflict through violent means.
Jack Avery, who has gained attention for his solo work this year, expressed gratitude for the support of law enforcement in an Instagram post on Thursday. He mentioned that his priority is to “be the best father I can be,” underscoring the personal stakes of the case. The social media platform, which has over 450,000 followers, has become a focal point for public reactions, with many fans speculating about the details of the alleged scheme.
Gabriela Gonzalez is currently held in a Los Angeles-area detention facility under a $2 million bond. Her attorney, Elliot Zarabi, has not yet commented on the charges. Meanwhile, Francisco Gonzalez was arrested in Florida and is awaiting extradition. He remains in Seminole County jail, though it is unclear if he has legal representation to address the allegations. Cordrey, who was also arrested on Thursday, is being held on a $2 million bail, with no attorney listed in official records. If found guilty, all three individuals could face life imprisonment for their roles in the crime.
Background on the Boy Band and Its Disbandment
The boy band Why Don’t We, known for their 2018 debut album, has been a significant presence in the music industry. The group’s self-titled album featured the hit single “8 Letters,” which garnered widespread popularity. Following their initial success, they released a second album in 2021, marking three years of activity. However, the band has since disbanded, with Avery stepping out as a solo artist. His recent single, “XOXOX,” reflects a new chapter in his career, one that now includes the shadow of a potential murder plot.
Prosecutors have not yet disclosed the exact circumstances that led Gonzalez to seek revenge against Avery, but the custody dispute appears to be the central motive. The father and boyfriend’s involvement suggests a broader network of individuals working together to execute the plan. The use of the dark web for hiring the hitman adds a layer of sophistication to the crime, indicating a deliberate effort to conceal the plot.
The FBI’s initial involvement in the case highlights the seriousness with which the investigation was approached. Law enforcement agencies reportedly uncovered evidence of the conspiracy through digital traces and financial transactions. The undercover officer’s role in intercepting Cordrey’s communications was crucial in solidifying the case against the defendants. This collaborative effort between federal and local authorities underscores the complexity of the situation.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case has sparked discussions about the intersection of personal relationships and criminal activity. The media has focused on Gonzalez’s social media presence, which may have amplified the public’s interest in the story. Her ability to connect with a large audience could provide insights into the motivations behind the alleged plot, though the details remain under investigation.
Impact of the Charges on the Family and Public Perception
The accusations have placed the family in the spotlight, with the daughter at the center of the conflict. The legal battle over custody has now escalated to a potential murder charge, raising questions about the depth of the emotional strain. For Avery, the charges represent a significant challenge, both personally and professionally. His Instagram post reflects a balance between acknowledging the gravity of the situation and maintaining hope for the future.
Francisco Gonzalez’s arrest in Florida has added another dimension to the case, as he faces the possibility of being tried in a different jurisdiction. The extradition process may take time, but the charges against him are tied to the broader conspiracy. Cordrey’s role as a key intermediary in the plot has drawn attention, particularly given his youth and the ease with which he could be influenced by his partner and father.
The case also serves as a reminder of the high stakes in celebrity relationships. While the band’s members were once celebrated for their music, the custody dispute has transformed the narrative into one of criminal intent. The dark web’s anonymity made it easier for Gonzalez to seek out a hitman, but the investigation’s success in linking the conspirators demonstrates the effectiveness of modern law enforcement tools.
As the trial progresses, the story of Gabriela Gonzalez and her alleged attempt to hire a hitman will continue to unfold. The legal system will determine the truth behind the charges, while the public remains captivated by the drama of a celebrity’s life being threatened. For Avery, the case is a test of his resilience and commitment to his family, even as the legal process unfolds around him.