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Rivas' family slams D4vd for claiming poverty in his murder trial despite his corporate wealth @D4vd / Instagram

The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez has publicly questioned the court-appointed legal representation of American singer D4vd. Following an arraignment hearing on 31 August 2026, attorney Patrick Steinfeld, speaking on behalf of the grieving family, publicly disputed the performer's eligibility for public defence funding.

The musician, born David Anthony Burke, was granted representation by the Los Angeles County Public Defender's Office. In response to the controversy, the Public Defender's Office stated that it had conducted a thorough financial evaluation and concluded that Burke was fully eligible for their services.

The representation dispute arises amid a highly publicised criminal case. The Los Angeles Police Department arrested Burke in April 2026, and on 20 April 2026, the Los Angeles County District Attorney officially charged him with murder with special-circumstance allegations, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of human remains.

Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges, including at his recent 31 August arraignment, and is presumed innocent unless and until proved guilty in a court of law.

Corporate Structures and Asset Protection

During recent public statements, Steinfeld raised questions regarding Burke's earnings and streaming metrics, which include approximately 16 million monthly listeners.

According to financial testimony presented during the preliminary hearing, Burke's music generated approximately $10 million (£7.39 million) to $11.5 million (£8.4 million) in gross earnings from 2023 through 2025. Furthermore, Steinfeld claims Burke is actively protecting his personal estate through these distinct corporate shields: D4VD Entertainment, Skullrose Merchandising, and Headspace Publishing.

The preliminary hearing also featured testimony regarding Burke's assets. Former financial manager Benjamin Gregor testified about discussions concerning transferring the titles of Texas properties, which are held in Burke's name, to his mother, Colleen Burke.

During the proceedings, Gregor acknowledged testimony indicating that the stated purpose of these proposed transfers involved protecting the estate against a potential civil suit.

These financial disputes remain a collateral issue to the prosecution's severe allegations regarding the death of Rivas Hernandez. Prosecutors allege that Burke and the victim met around 2022 when she was 11 years old. The prosecution contends that an alleged sexual relationship began in November 2023, when Rivas Hernandez was 13 and Burke was 18.

Timeline of the Investigation and Legal Proceedings

According to the prosecution's timeline, Burke allegedly arranged for Rivas Hernandez to visit his rented Hollywood Hills residence on 23 April 2025, where prosecutors allege he killed her shortly after her arrival.

To support their contention that Burke subsequently dismembered and concealed her body, prosecutors allege he made specific purchases after her death, including ordering a shovel on 24 April, followed by chain saws and other items in the subsequent days and weeks.

The 14-year-old victim remained missing until 8 September 2025, when tow lot workers discovered her decomposed and dismembered remains in the front trunk of Burke's impounded Tesla.

A multi-day preliminary hearing concluded on 27 July 2026. Following the presentation of the prosecution's case, Judge Charlaine Olmedo determined that sufficient evidence existed for Burke to stand trial.

Despite the ongoing debates over the defendant's legal funding, the victim's family maintains that their primary objective remains the criminal trial. Through Steinfeld, the family stated that they want justice for Celeste and for whoever is responsible to face the law. They have also expressed sincere gratitude to members of the public who continue to offer support through this ordeal.

Legal proceedings will continue in Los Angeles County as prosecutors and the defence prepare for the upcoming trial.

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