US musician D4vd has pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree murder in the death of a teenage girl who vanished last year. The star, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, is accused of murdering 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose decomposing remains were found in September in a Tesla registered to his Texas address.
Burke, 21, also faces charges of murder for 'financial gain' and for murdering a witness to an investigation, as the Los Angeles district attorney stated.
During his arraignment on Monday, Burke remained silent, with his attorneys entering a not guilty plea on his behalf. His defense team expressed confidence that evidence will ultimately show his innocence. The courtroom on Monday was filled with palpable tension, especially as Rivas Hernandez's family was present.
The District Attorney's office alleges that Burke committed the murder to protect his lucrative music career that the victim was seen threatening on that fateful night when she disappeared from his residence in the Hollywood Hills. Notably, the body was discovered dismembered in the trunk of Burke's vehicle, raising grave concerns about the circumstances surrounding her death.
The case emphasizes troubling aspects of youth safety, particularly regarding the high-profile nature of Burke as an artist known for his indie-pop hits. In the wake of the allegations, he canceled his world tour and withdrew from public appearances. As the case continues, the community remains vigilant about the justice process for Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
Burke, 21, also faces charges of murder for 'financial gain' and for murdering a witness to an investigation, as the Los Angeles district attorney stated.
During his arraignment on Monday, Burke remained silent, with his attorneys entering a not guilty plea on his behalf. His defense team expressed confidence that evidence will ultimately show his innocence. The courtroom on Monday was filled with palpable tension, especially as Rivas Hernandez's family was present.
The District Attorney's office alleges that Burke committed the murder to protect his lucrative music career that the victim was seen threatening on that fateful night when she disappeared from his residence in the Hollywood Hills. Notably, the body was discovered dismembered in the trunk of Burke's vehicle, raising grave concerns about the circumstances surrounding her death.
The case emphasizes troubling aspects of youth safety, particularly regarding the high-profile nature of Burke as an artist known for his indie-pop hits. In the wake of the allegations, he canceled his world tour and withdrew from public appearances. As the case continues, the community remains vigilant about the justice process for Celeste Rivas Hernandez.
