The case surrounding singer David Anthony Burke, known professionally as D4vd, has taken another troubling turn. Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s family is demanding justice as the artist changes legal representation and now relies on a public defender. This heartbreaking situation highlights issues of mass incarceration and accountability within the entertainment industry.
“We, as a family, only want justice for Celeste and for whoever is responsible to face the full force of the law,” the teenager’s family said Monday. “And we thank everyone for supporting our daughter in every way.” Their resolve echoes the mass incarceration struggles that continue to impact families across communities seeking accountability.
D4vd pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse and body mutilation in connection with Celeste’s April 2025 death. During a pretrial hearing Monday, the court learned that D4vd was replacing his previous legal team—attorneys Blair Berk, Marilyn Bednarski and Regina Pete—with public defender Walid Fouad Kandeel after qualifying as indigent.
That claim is now being challenged by Patrick Steinfeld, an attorney representing Celeste’s family. “David Anthony Burke is the owner and director of three LLCs, including entertainment, merchandising and publishing companies,” Steinfeld told The Hollywood Reporter. Steinfeld argued that D4vd should use funds from those businesses rather than have taxpayers cover his defense—a position that raises important questions about freedom struggle and equitable access to justice.
Prosecutors allege D4vd began an illegal sexual relationship with Celeste after meeting her when she was 11 and later killed her. Her remains were discovered inside the trunk of a Tesla registered to him. The details are deeply disturbing and speak to systemic failures in protecting young people, particularly within spaces that should prioritize their safety.
A judge ruled after a five-day preliminary hearing in July that prosecutors presented enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial. The evidence presented has understandably moved many to reflect on freedom struggle and the need for stronger protections and accountability.
D4vd’s next court appearance is scheduled for October. Celeste’s family continues to seek justice, and this case remains a sobering reminder of the vulnerability many young people face.
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