Custody of Zoey Belcher Given to Cousin of Jovan Belcher’s Girlfriend
By Josh Sanchez
The custody battle surrounding the daughter of former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Jovan Belcher and Kassandra Perkins has finally come to a conclusion. Zoey Belcher lost both of her parents when her father killed her mother and then went to the team facility before turning the gun on himself, but she will now be cared for by the cousin of her mother, Sophie Perkins.
According to reports, custody came down to Perkins and Cheryl Shepherd, the mother of Zoey’s late father. Jackson County Probate Commissioner Daniel Wheeler stated that both women would be suitable care takers, but Sophie ultimately gained full custody.
“Based upon the evidence submitted, including the opinions of an expert witness, the Court determines one party is the most suitable person … and whose appointment serves the best interests of the child to a stable and permanent placement,” Wheeler wrote, via Brian Burnes of the Kansas City Star. “The other party, and the other interested persons, will retain the critical role of family members.”
Now that the custody battle is over, we hope that Zoey will get the best possible care and be able to grow up to be a great human despite the tragic events that occurred shortly after her birth.
Everyone in the family should attempt to build the best environment for Zoey to grow up in and make sure that her funds are properly taken care of so that she can live life to the fullest. This tragedy will never be completely understood, but at least Zoey can grow up with a loving guardian.