D4vd is now being represented by a public defender for his murder trial.
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D4vd and his legal team parted ways in his high-profile murder case, which led to him opting for a public defender on Monday in Los Angeles.
This week, lawyers met with L.A. County Superior Court Judge Charlaine Olmedo in chambers, after which defense attorney Blair Berk told the court that her client–whose real name is David Burke–wants the public defender.
“Is that your wish, Mr. Burke,” Judge Olmedo asked.
The defendant responded, “Yes.”
This came during what normally would have been a routine pre-trial hearing in this case, per NBC News. D4vd is accused of killing a 14-year-old girl, Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose decaying remains were found in the trunk of his abandoned Tesla.
D4vd’s public defender, Walid Fouad Kandeel, was seated in the gallery until Berk disclosed the change of legal teams. His new counsel asked for Monday’s arraignment to be continued to give him more time to study the case. Olmedo then ordered all parties to return to court on Oct. 19.
The defendant flashed a smile and shook hands with his now-former attorneys, Berk and Regina Peter, as court was adjourned. He will remain held in custody without bail as the trial continues.
“This morning the court granted our request to withdraw as counsel and appoint the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office after it was determined David qualified for appointed counsel,” according to a statement from Berk. “We continue to support David and his defense against these serious charges. We are grateful that the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office has taken over the representation and that David has a highly capable and committed team of attorneys and investigators behind him.”
The Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office also extended its condolences to the victim’s loved ones.
“We recognize the loss of life underlying the allegations and extend our sympathies to those who are grieving,” the office said in a statement. “At the same time, David Burke is entitled to a defense that takes his circumstances seriously and carefully examines the evidence. We are committed to providing him with that defense.”
It has not been revealed why Burke and his lawyers parted ways, though TMZ claims a lack of funds could be the reason.
