Full Breakdown
Jack Avery Targeted in Alleged Murder-for-Hire Plot Amid Custody Battle
5/22/2026, 12:01:21 PM
Alleged Plot and Arrests
On May 18-19, 2024, Los Angeles County authorities arrested social-media influencer Gabriela “Gabbie” Gonzalez, her father Francisco Javier Gonzalez, and Gonzalez’s former boyfriend Kai Cordrey. Prosecutors allege the trio conspired to hire a hitman via the dark web to kill Jack Avery, a former Why Don’t We singer. The alleged plot is tied to a custody battle over Avery’s seven-year-old daughter, Lavender. The scheme reportedly involved $10,000 front money from the father and an additional $4,000 to the alleged contractor.
Key Figures
- Jack Avery – Singer, father of Lavender.
- Gabriela “Gabbie” Gonzalez – Influencer, mother of Lavender.
- Francisco Javier Gonzalez – Gabriela’s father, alleged financier.
- Kai Cordrey – Gabriela’s ex-boyfriend, alleged intermediary.
- Nathan J. Hochman – Los Angeles County District Attorney.
Timeline
- 2020-2021 – Gonzalez allegedly seeks a hitman on the dark web.
- April 2021 – Father transfers $10,000 to Cordrey as front money.
- May 2021 – Cordrey obtains an additional $4,000 for the alleged hit.
- September 2021 – Undercover agent poses as a hitman, discusses payment and proof of death.
- May 18-19 2024 – Arrests in Los Angeles and Seminole County, Florida.
- May 19 2024 – District Attorney files charges.
- May 21 2024 – Avery posts an Instagram statement.
Charges, Bail & Potential Sentences
All three defendants face charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder and solicitation of murder. Gonzalez and Cordrey each have $2 million bail or bond; Francisco Gonzalez is held without bail pending extradition. Conviction could carry a sentence of 25 years to life in state prison.
Official Statements
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman called the case “a situation where the defendants are accused of going to great lengths to find someone to commit murder.” Jack Avery’s Instagram post thanked law-enforcement, emphasized his focus on fatherhood and urged the public to seek the truth, without naming suspects.
Criticism, Opposition & Gaps
None of the three have publicly retained counsel, and no attorney has spoken on their behalf. The affidavit’s witness statements—including a claim the father suggested “it would be cheaper if Avery were dead”—remain uncorroborated. Sources differ on whether Gonzalez and Cordrey are on bail or bond and on whether the father formally waived extradition. The alleged plot’s 2020-2021 timeline contrasts with the 2024 arrests, leaving investigative gaps.
Verbatim Quotes
- “A few days ago, three individuals were arrested in connection with an alleged plot to kill me. One of those individuals is the mother of my daughter.” — Jack Avery, Singer
- “For years, my family and I have endured intense public scrutiny, false accusations, and deep painful attacks on our character and reputation.” — Jack Avery
- “This is a case where the defendants are accused of going to great lengths to find someone to commit murder.” — Nathan J. Hochman, Los Angeles County District Attorney
- “no one even knows the half of everything you’ve endured. your strength is unbelievable brother,” — Daniel Seavey, Bandmate, Why Don’t We
What’s Next
All three remain in custody while the case proceeds through state court. Prosecutors anticipate extradition hearings for Francisco Gonzalez. Avery has filed a restraining order and continues to seek sole custody of Lavender as the criminal proceedings unfold.
