Wilmington, NC — David Eason, the former “Teen Mom 2” star, has declared himself nearly $50,000 in debt and unable to afford the legal representation he once enjoyed, courtesy of his estranged wife, Jenelle Evans. This financial disclosure came to light following a series of criminal charges against him including a serious felony.
In a recent court appearance, Eason, 36, revealed that he has only $106 across all his bank accounts and is overrun by debts amounting to nearly $49,000. His financial strains forced him to declare indigency, appealing for a public defender to handle his ongoing legal troubles.
Eason’s legal issues stem from an incident in September last year, where he was accused of assaulting Jenelle’s teenage son, Jace. Following the incident, Jenelle, who later separated from Eason in February, initially hired attorneys William and Tara Gore to defend him. Their services were no longer affordable post-split, leading to Eason’s current predicament.
Despite claiming a monthly income of $1,200 from roles as a scuba diver and social media influencer, Eason’s affidavit outlines monthly expenses that surpass $4,300. Included in these costs are substantial support payments, though recent court statements from Jenelle allege that Eason has failed to make any such payments to her for their daughter, Ensley, since their split.
Eason’s financial woes extend to significant tax debt as well, with a reported $46,000 owed in income taxes from as far back as the 2018 tax year; his last year of filed taxes. His residing address was also listed as a marina in North Carolina, where he lives on what was previously a shared boat with Jenelle.
The gravity of Eason’s legal situation is underscored by the charges against him. An assault by strangulation, a Class H felony for which he is under indictment, carries a potential sentence of up to 39 months in prison. Additionally, a misdemeanor charge of child abuse could add up to 150 days.
Compounding his difficulties, Eason was also notably absent from a recent custody hearing, resulting in Jenelle receiving sole legal and physical custody of their daughter, Ensley. This decision was handed down after Eason failed to appear in court to contest the custody.
As Eason’s criminal trial looms, the impacts are not only legal but deeply personal, affecting his familial relationships and financial stability. Further updates on his case are anticipated as proceedings continue.