Los Angeles, California — A TikTok influencer accused of participating in an alleged murder-for-hire plot involving the father of her child appeared in a Los Angeles courtroom Thursday, where her case was postponed as prosecutors continue moving forward with the high-profile investigation.
Gabbie Gonzalez, 24, appeared before a Los Angeles Superior Court judge wearing a dark blazer over a green blouse. During the hearing, she was seen smiling as her arraignment was delayed until Sept. 14, extending legal proceedings in a case that has drawn widespread attention.
Gonzalez has denied no charges in court so far, as the arraignment has yet to take place.
Prosecutors Link Case to Custody Dispute
According to investigators, the alleged murder-for-hire plot centers on Jack Avery, a former member of the pop group Why Don’t We and the father of Gonzalez’s 7-year-old daughter, Lavender.
Authorities believe the alleged conspiracy grew out of an ongoing custody dispute between the former couple.
Investigators say Gonzalez’s father, Francisco Gonzalez, became heavily involved in the conflict and was later arrested in Florida in connection with the case.
According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, one witness told investigators Francisco Gonzalez allegedly remarked:
“It would be cheaper if Jack were dead.”
Authorities have not publicly discussed the witness’s identity, and the allegation remains part of the criminal investigation.
Investigators Allege Plot Began in 2021
Law enforcement officials believe the alleged conspiracy dates back to 2021, when Jack Avery was living in Hawaii.
According to investigators, members of the Gonzalez family allegedly attempted to gather photographs or videos showing Avery smoking or drinking, believing such material could potentially be used during custody proceedings.
Authorities also cited an alleged message from Francisco Gonzalez that read:
“Call Barca … never too early.”
Investigators believe the message referred to Dustin Barca, whom authorities claim was later approached as part of the alleged plan.
Undercover Operation Became Key Part of Investigation
According to investigators, Gonzalez and family acquaintance Kai Cordrey allegedly attempted to recruit Barca to threaten Avery.
Authorities further allege that Francisco Gonzalez transferred $10,000 to Cordrey in April 2021, describing the payment as compensation for web development work.
However, investigators say Cordrey later stated that explanation was false and claimed he had not performed any web services.
Using information provided by Cordrey, federal investigators allegedly arranged for an undercover agent to pose as a hitman.
Authorities claim conversations with Francisco Gonzalez included discussions about payments and the intended target, forming a significant part of the prosecution’s case.
Charges Remain Pending as Case Moves Forward
Following Gonzalez’s arrest, court records indicate that Avery sought a protective order and requested sole custody of the couple’s daughter.
Prosecutors have charged Gabbie Gonzalez, Francisco Gonzalez, and Kai Cordrey with one count each of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and solicitation of murder.
The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
With Gonzalez’s arraignment now postponed until September 14, the closely watched case is expected to continue drawing attention as prosecutors and defense attorneys prepare for the next stage of proceedings.
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