Howard County Circuit Court Judge Maurice C. Frazier has ordered Food Network star Eric Adjepong to remain separated from his seven-year-old daughter for at least one year, citing "a preponderance of the evidence" that he physically abused the child. The ruling, made on July 10, stems from allegations brought forth by Adjepong's ex-wife, Janell Davis-Mack.
The protective order mandates that Adjepong, 38, avoid all contact with his daughter until July 10, 2027. The order permits supervised visits between Adjepong and the child.
Adjepong, a "Top Chef" finalist in 2019 and host of the Food Network series "Wildcard Kitchen," responded to the allegations through his attorney. In a statement provided to USA Today and TMZ, his legal counsel stated that the allegations arose within the context of a protracted divorce and custody proceeding, which concluded on June 2. The couple married in 2017 and separated in 2021.
"Because this matter involves my young daughter, whom I love deeply, I intend to protect her privacy and will not discuss the underlying allegations or other sensitive family matters publicly other than to say that these allegations arose in the context of a long running divorce and custody proceeding," the statement read. Adjepong's attorney also noted that a District of Columbia Metropolitan Police Department investigation concluded without charges, and the Child and Family Services Agency deemed its investigation "unfounded."
Davis-Mack, through her attorney Todd K. Mohink, stated that her daughter was "brave enough to speak up against who should have been one of the most trusted adults in her life." Mohink told The Washington Post that "the court did the right thing to protect the best interests of the child." Davis-Mack also shared on Instagram on July 17, "My daughter was just granted a protective order against her father because she was brave enough to speak up against who should have been one of the most trusted adults in her life. Unfortunately for him - I’ll never stop believing her, protecting her, or reminding her that her voice matters."
Details regarding the specific allegations of abuse have not been publicly disclosed. Adjepong is known for his appearances on various Food Network shows, including "Alex vs. America," and has also featured on programs such as "Live with Kelly and Ryan," "CBS Mornings," and "Good Morning America."