Social media influencer and two others charged in alleged murder plot
Los Angeles County prosecutors filed charges against a 24-year-old influencer, her father and her former boyfriend in connection with an alleged murder-for-hire scheme. The case is tied to a custody dispute involving the influencer's 7-year-old daughter.
rediff.comLos Angeles County prosecutors announced charges this week against three people accused of plotting to kill a pop singer several years ago. The influencer, 24-year-old Gabriela Gonzalez, her father, 59-year-old Francisco Gonzalez, and her former boyfriend, 26-year-old Kai Cordrey, each face one count of attempted murder, one count of conspiracy to commit murder and one count of solicitation of murder.
Alleged plot details Prosecutors said the alleged conspiracy began between 2020 and 2021 when Gabriela Gonzalez asked Cordrey to hire someone through the dark web to kill Jack Avery, the father of her daughter. Court documents state the plan called for the killing to occur in Los Angeles and appear as a car accident.
Francisco Gonzalez, described in the arrest warrant as deeply involved in the custody conflict, allegedly provided the money. Prosecutors said he sent Cordrey $10,000 in April 2021 and an additional $4,000 two months later.
Investigation and arrests In September 2021, Cordrey spoke with an undercover officer posing as a hitman and discussed payment and proof of death, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. The office said Cordrey told the officer that Gabriela Gonzalez wanted the murder carried out and that Francisco Gonzalez could pay.
Gabriela Gonzalez was arraigned on Thursday. A judge set her bail at $2 million; she posted bond and is required to wear a GPS monitor. She is permitted to travel to Hawaii, where she lives, but is barred from posting on social media about the case until her next court date on July 23.
Francisco Gonzalez was arrested in Florida and is awaiting extradition to Los Angeles County. It remains unclear whether Cordrey is in custody.
Background and statements Avery, 26, a former member of the boy band Why Don't We, said in an Instagram post on Thursday that his focus is on being the best father he can be. He stated he has sole custody of his daughter and expressed gratitude to law enforcement and prosecutors.
Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the FBI conducted the investigation before turning the case over to his office. If convicted, each defendant faces 25 years to life in state prison.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
5 events- 2020-2021
Gabriela Gonzalez allegedly asked Cordrey to hire a hitman via the dark web.
1 source@ABC - April 2021
Francisco Gonzalez allegedly sent Cordrey $10,000 for the plot.
1 source@ABC - June 2021
Francisco Gonzalez allegedly sent Cordrey an additional $4,000.
1 source@ABC - September 2021
Cordrey discussed the plot with an undercover officer posing as a hitman.
1 source@ABC - May 21, 2026
Los Angeles County prosecutors announced the charges.
1 source@ABC
Potential Impact
- 01
Gabriela Gonzalez must wear a GPS monitor and limit social media activity until July.
- 02
Francisco Gonzalez faces extradition proceedings from Florida to California.
- 03
Avery retains sole custody of his daughter during ongoing legal proceedings.
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