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Defense team changes in the case

In the murder case involving U.S. musician D4vd, the high-profile lawyers previously assigned to the case have withdrawn. The court has appointed the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office to take over the artist’s defense.

David Anthony Burke, who performs under the name D4vd, again denied the charges against him at a hearing in Los Angeles on Monday. The 21-year-old Burke is being tried in connection with the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez.

Why did the lawyers leave?

A joint statement to the BBC said the court accepted the request of Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski and Regina Peter to withdraw from the case. The statement said Burke met the requirements to be represented by court-appointed counsel and that the case had been transferred to the public defender’s office.

Speaking for the new defense team, assistant public defender Walid Kandeel said Burke “has a right to a defense that takes his circumstances seriously and carefully reviews the evidence.”

What charges are being considered in court?

Last month, the judge ruled that Burke would stand trial on murder charges. Prosecutors say Hernandez’s remains were found in September 2025 inside a Tesla registered to Burke’s address.

The charges in the case are listed as follows:

  • First-degree murder
  • Tampering with human remains
  • Child sexual abuse

Prosecutors also argue that special circumstances involving financial gain apply. That finding could, in theory, open the door to the death penalty for Burke.

What is the prosecution alleging?

According to the indictment, prosecutors allege Burke sexually abused the girl over several years before stabbing her and dismembering her body. The prosecution says Hernandez threatened to expose Burke’s relationship with a minor and damage his music career.

What happens next?

The next key date in the case has been set for Oct. 19, when a preliminary hearing is scheduled. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the prosecution is ready to continue with the case.

Hochman said the change in the defense team could delay the case, as new lawyers may ask for more time to review the evidence or file a motion to dismiss the charges. Even so, prosecutors say they are continuing their preparations on the assumption that the new defense team will provide strong representation.

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