EXCLUSIVE: Grandparents Seek Custody Amidst Murder Scandal
In a twist of fate following the grim tale of Jared Bridegan’s murder, the spotlight now shines on his estranged wife, Shanna Gardner-Fernandez, who finds herself behind bars, accused of orchestrating the crime. As the legal drama unfolds, the wealthy parents of Gardner-Fernandez, Shelli and Sterling Gardner, have set their sights on gaining custody of their 11-year-old grandchildren.
However, in their petition filed in Benton County Superior Court in Washington state, they have raised eyebrows by presenting what appears to be inaccurate information regarding the children’s residence over the past five years. This potentially false information has cast doubt on the legitimacy of their custody claim.
A Puzzling Petition
The petition centers around a straightforward question: “During the past 5 years have any of the children lived…outside Washington state?” The Gardners marked “No” without filling out the subsequent section that asked for a detailed list of the children’s residences and cohabitants.
The Gardner-Fernandez family only moved to Washington in December 2022, seeking refuge from the intense media scrutiny surrounding the murder. This sudden relocation raises questions about the accuracy of their response.
An Uncertain Strategy
Marilyn Chinitz, a matrimonial lawyer renowned for representing celebrities in high-profile divorces, speculates that the Gardners’ response may have aimed to prevent litigation in Florida, where the paternal grandparents reside. However, this strategy could potentially backfire, as the court may scrutinize their petition with skepticism.
Chinitz underscores that both Shelli and Sterling Gardner, along with their legal counsel, signed the document under penalty of perjury. Hence, any inaccuracies in their answers may have significant consequences.
Family Ties and Custody
The Gardner’s petition raises another noteworthy issue. When asked, “Do you know of anyone besides you and the parents who have, or claims to have, a legal right to spend time with any of these children?” they replied with a simple “No.” This response seems to contradict the public plea made by Jared Bridegan’s widow, Kirsten Bridegan, who seeks visitation with the children.
Before Jared’s tragic murder, the couple shared joint custody of the twins, who divided their time between their half-siblings and their mother. Kirsten’s emotional pleas for the children’s reunification have gone unanswered, leaving her frustrated.
Assets in Question
Further scrutiny is brought to the table when reviewing the Gardners’ response to a question regarding the children’s assets. They omitted mentioning the substantial trust accounts established for the twins. Shelli Gardner, the owner of the successful papercraft company Stampin’ Up!, has reportedly been financially supporting Gardner-Fernandez for a significant portion of her adult life.
It’s worth noting that the Gardners, who own properties in multiple states, recently sold their vacation property in Florida for a substantial sum, further distancing themselves from the state.
A Complex Legal Landscape
In a complex legal landscape, Gardner-Fernandez signed the petition, relinquishing her parental rights to her own parents. Additionally, the Gardners requested limited or no visitation with their daughter due to her grave charges, including first-degree murder and child abuse.
The murder trial encompasses a web of conspiracy, with Gardner-Fernandez indicted alongside her estranged second husband, Mario Fernandez, and the confessed shooter, Henry Tenon, who is cooperating with prosecutors.
A Tragic Tale Unfolds
The alleged conspiracy unraveled on February 16, 2022, when Jared Bridegan, after dropping off his twins at Gardner-Fernandez’s home, met a horrifying end. His daughter, Bexley, witnessed the tragic event, narrowly escaping harm.
Jared and Gardner-Fernandez were embroiled in a contentious custody dispute at the time of the murder. If convicted, Gardner-Fernandez and Fernandez could face the death penalty.
A Developing Story
As the legal battle continues, many questions remain unanswered, and the family drama intensifies. For now, the future of the 11-year-old twins remains uncertain, and the case remains under intense scrutiny. Legal representatives for the Gardners and Gardner-Fernandez did not immediately respond to requests for comments.