Reality television personalities Kim Zolciak and Kroy Biermann appeared visibly strained as they were seen ahead of their son KJ Biermann's bond hearing on Friday. Zolciak, 48, was described as looking stressed and hurried, while Biermann, 40, appeared devastated and somber, according to an eyewitness.
KJ Biermann, 15, has been held at the Metro Regional Youth Detention Center in Atlanta since his arrest on Aug. 17. He faces charges of aggravated sodomy and aggravated sexual battery. A previous court appearance was canceled following his indictment on seven felony counts, including aggravated child molestation, aggravated sodomy, aggravated sexual battery against a child under 16, and false imprisonment.
His attorney, Jason Sheffield, has argued that the severity of the charges has impacted the protections typically afforded to juveniles, stating it is difficult to comprehend a 14- or 15-year-old being held for an extended period awaiting a bond hearing. Sheffield maintains KJ's innocence and intends to seek a transfer of the case to juvenile court, while prosecutors are pursuing trying the teenager as an adult.
The arrest stems from an alleged incident at a Life Time fitness center in Alpharetta, Georgia, on April 23, involving a female classmate. Court documents state the classmate claimed KJ Biermann forced himself on her and attempted to engage in sexual intercourse against her will. The teenager has maintained his innocence, citing his character, academics, football achievements, and scholarship offers.
A representative for Zolciak stated that KJ categorically denies the allegations. Kroy Biermann has not publicly commented on his son's arrest or the charges.
If convicted, legal experts suggest KJ Biermann could face decades in prison given the seriousness of the charges. Sheffield has indicated that his client plans to plead not guilty at his Oct. 14 arraignment.