In brief
US musician D4vd has lost his celebrity lawyers, who stepped back from his criminal defence. The 21‑year‑old has been assigned by the court to the public defender’s office to contest charges of murder, mutilation and sexual abuse linked to a 14‑year‑old victim. A pre‑trial hearing is scheduled for 19 October as prosecutors prepare to advance their case, while the public defenders pledge full‑scale support.
A big scene in Los Angeles: the team of celebrity lawyers who had represented pop‑star D4vd has left the case, leaving the rap‑star to be defended by the public defender’s office. The move came after the judge handed in a decision that he will stand trial for murder, and the lawyers said they could no longer dedicate the time and resources needed. Their client is now 21 and the charges include first‑degree murder, mutilation and child sexual abuse after a 14‑year‑old was killed.
The judge scheduled a pre‑trial hearing for 19 October, and prosecution expected that the switch to public defence may cause a delay, require more time to review evidence or even lead to a dismissal motion. "We will be ready to fight the case," Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said outside the courtroom.
Public‑defender Walid Kandeel vowed that D4vd will receive a defence that takes his circumstances seriously and thoroughly examines the evidence. The team highlights that they already served high‑profile clients like Mel Gibson, Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan.
The case hinges on evidence that a teenage girl threatened to expose the singer’s illegal relationship with a minor and threaten his career. D4vd allegedly stabbed her after she arrived at his Hollywood house after a Uber ride he had organized.
The judge’s decision and the lawyers’ withdrawal spotlight a serious conflict: the rap‑star’s growing fame is now threatened by a shocking crime that may potentially carry a death‑sentence if the prosecution can prove special circumstances.
