Jon Bon Jovi Speaks About Daughter Stephanie’s Heroin Overdose, Says He Was ‘Shocked’

Fans of Jon Bon Jovi were undoubtedly shocked to learn about his daughter Stephanie’s heroin overdose in November, but in a new interview the rocker admits that he wasn’t any less prepared for the news than onlookers.

Bon Jovi’s daughter, a 19-year-old student at Hamilton College, was arrested on Nov. 14 for possession of a “small quantity” of heroin after being found unresponsive in her dorm by police. Also arrested was fellow Hamilton College student Ian Grant, 21, who was charged with three misdemeanors.

In a press statement released that same day, Hamilton College said, “In addition to violating state law, the actions alleged to have been committed by the students violate Hamilton College policy. The college is cooperating with the police investigation. Our first concern is always for the safety of our students. Out of respect for the privacy of our students and in accordance with federal regulations we do not discuss individual health or disciplinary matters."

In a recent interview with the Associated Press, Bon Jovi spoke about his daughter’s overdose and arrest, saying that it caught him completely off guard. “I didn't have any sisters. We bring home this girl the first day. Now what? Where's the manual? There was no manual. So you bring her up the best you can, you surround her with hugs and kisses and know that she may eventually fall down,” said Bon Jovi.

“I appreciate the outpouring of kindness in light of what happened in my household. I'm shocked as much as the next parent with this situation and had no idea,” he added. “But then you surround them with best help and love and move on, and that's where we're at with it. Steph is a great kid. Great GPA. Cool school, Hamilton College up in Clinton, N.Y. Everything about it is idyllic. She was doing great. Then a sudden and steep decline. Hopefully, we caught it when we did and that's the end of it. But who knew? I've got three more to come.”

“Sometimes kids just make bad decisions?” prompted the AP interviewer. “I hope so,” responded Bon Jovi. “I'm confident, but no one knows the future. It is what it is.”