Eric Adjepong Allegedly Violated Ex-Wife’s Protective Order a Year Before Being Barred from Contacting Daughter Unsupervised

**Food Network Chef Eric Adjepong Faces Legal Challenges Over Protective Orders**

Eric Adjepong, best known as a finalist on “Top Chef: Kentucky” and a participant in several Food Network programmes, is currently embroiled in a series of legal issues related to allegations of domestic violence. Most recently, a protective order issued on 10 July 2026 has restricted him from having unsupervised contact with his seven-year-old daughter until he completes necessary parenting classes and reunification therapy.

The allegations against Adjepong have been ongoing. Reports indicate that he was previously charged with breaching a temporary protective order in January 2025 after reaching out to his ex-wife, Janell Davis-Mack. This initial protective order was established following Davis-Mack’s petition for protection from domestic violence, with claims that Adjepong had violated the conditions by communicating with her through a court-ordered parenting application.

Court documents indicate that this protective order was subsequently dismissed on the basis that its parameters were incorporated into a civil custody agreement. Adjepong alleged that Davis-Mack had unlawfully restricted his access to their child, prompting him to communicate via OurFamilyWizard, the mandated app for discussing their daughter’s welfare. Adjepong’s counsel asserted that the violation claims were dismissed because there was an inherent conflict between the no-contact stipulations and the requirements of the court’s custody communications.

In the latest ruling earlier this month, Judge Maurice C. Frazier of the Howard County Circuit Court found sufficient evidence to suggest that Adjepong had physically abused his daughter. The protective order prohibits him not only from contacting his daughter unsupervised but also from entering her residence or school. The court emphasized the need to ensure the child’s safety and wellbeing when issuing the order.

Adjepong has publicly denied all allegations of abuse, suggesting that investigations by law enforcement and the District of Columbia Child and Family Services Agency concluded without any evidence to support claims of mistreatment. In his statement, he expressed his respect for the court while emphasising his commitment to comply with the protective order and to protect his daughter’s privacy in the ongoing proceedings.

Throughout these proceedings, Davis-Mack has maintained her stance, asserting her daughter’s bravery in coming forward with her claims. In a recent Instagram post, she expressed her unwavering belief in her daughter’s truth and highlighted the importance of protecting and elevating her voice in light of the circumstances.

Adjepong’s attorney, Todd K. Mohink, further elaborated on the January 2025 order’s dismissal, clarifying that it was not an exoneration of the accusations but rather a procedural adjustment to better encapsulate the protective measures necessary for the child’s safety. He emphasised that the same no-contact provisions were transferred into a civil custody order to maintain ongoing protection for Davis-Mack.

Despite his distinguished career as a chef, Adjepong’s legal troubles have overshadowed his culinary achievements. His reputation has been affected by this public scrutiny, with many questioning the dynamics of his personal life. The court’s ruling represents a critical juncture for Adjepong as he navigates the complexities of family law and the serious implications of the abuse allegations.

As this situation unfolds, Adjepong has indicated a desire to resolve these issues privately, reinforcing his hopes for a future where both he and Davis-Mack can communicate effectively regarding their daughter’s welfare without the need for public disputes. With ongoing restrictions and the need for compliance with the court’s directives, Adjepong faces a challenging path forward in both his personal and professional life.

The allegations against Adjepong bring to light broader issues surrounding domestic violence and the custody of children, highlighting the complexities that often accompany high-profile individuals in similar situations. As the legal proceedings continue, the focus remains on ensuring the best interests of the child at the heart of the matter.