In brief
Hollywood lawyer team that represented pop star D4vd has withdrawn from the murder case, leaving Los Angeles County Public Defender’s office to defend the 21‑year‑old. D4vd pleaded not guilty to first‑degree murder, body dismemberment and child sexual abuse charges linked to the death of Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors claim he killed the teenager after threats that could expose his relationship with a minor and jeopardise his music career. A special‑circumstance murder case may make him eligible for death penalty. The next pre‑trial hearing is set for 19 October.
Prominent lawyers hired to represent the U.S. pop artist have withdrawn from his case.
The singer, David Anthony Burke, popularly known as D4vd, is now being represented by the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s office for the alleged murder of 14‑year‑old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
He pleaded not guilty and faces charges of first‑degree murder, dismemberment of a body and child sexual abuse.
Prosecutors claim he killed the teenager after she threatened to expose his intimate relationship with a minor, which could ruin an already high‑profile music career.
The charges include special circumstances that could lead to a death sentence.
A preliminary court hearing last month formally read the charges, and the next pre‑trial conference is scheduled for 19 October.
Leading the former defense team, lawyers Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski and Regina Peter have represented high‑profile celebrities such as Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Mel Gibson and Harvey Weinstein for years before withdrawing, citing acceptance of the public defender’s appointment.
