I had to leave my JRT with my ex-husband 6 years ago when we separated because I moved into an apartment. When I bought a house he would not let me have her. She has been happy I think but she has not been spoiled and pampered like I would have done. I did not want to leave her, but at that time I had to do what was best for me and my daughter and an apartment was my only choice. I hate when you have to try to defend yourself and your decisions to complete strangers, and I hate when people judge you and say "well you did leave her there" when they don't know anything about the circumstances. I really regret leaving my JRT Becca behind, so if there is any way you can get your babies back then you need to do it. He might be a good dad to the dogs now but after he moves in with his girlfriend and she starts whining about them he might change his tune, not to mention her kids. But on the other hand, maybe his girlfriend will hate the dogs and he will give them back to you....hopefully her kids will be allergic to them and he will have to give them back to you....
...Good luck