Custody Clash: Sia and Husband in Heated Battle Over Their Son
A messy custody fight is unfolding between singer Sia and her estranged husband, Daniel Bernad. The couple, who separated after just two years of marriage, are now locked in a bitter dispute over their one-year-old son, Somersault Wonder Bernad.
Daniel's Custody Claim
Daniel, a former oncologist, has filed for sole custody, claiming Sia is unfit due to alleged substance abuse issues. He wants her visits with their son to be limited and supervised.
Sia's Counterarguments
Sia, however, argues that Daniel's own legal troubles make him unfit for unsupervised parenting.
Allegations of Substance Abuse
Daniel claims Sia has struggled with drug addiction, pointing to a recent hospitalization where she tested positive for barbiturates and benzodiazepines. He also alleges that she hid this information from him.
Sia counters that she has been sober for over six months and has consistently agreed to drug testing, unlike Daniel, who she says refused regular testing. She also mentions that Daniel is currently unemployed and financially dependent on her.
Dark Turn in the Custody Battle
The custody battle has taken a dark turn with allegations of a child porn investigation involving Daniel. Sia says that Daniel's visits with their son are already restricted due to an ongoing investigation by the LAPD and DCFS.
Daniel denies any wrongdoing and claims that Sia planted evidence to restrict his access to their son. Sia, however, remains cautious and insists on supervised visits with an experienced caregiver present.
Financial and Legal Disputes
In addition to custody, Daniel is seeking monthly child support of $77,245 and has also filed for spousal support, asking for over $250,000 per month.
Sia initially filed for divorce in March, citing irreconcilable differences and requesting legal and physical custody of their baby. She has expressed openness to visitation for Daniel, but only under supervised conditions.
Broader Implications
This custody battle raises important questions about the complexities of co-parenting and the legal system's role in protecting children. It also highlights the challenges of navigating personal struggles, such as substance abuse and legal issues, while trying to maintain a stable environment for a child.