D4VD makes bombshell financial claim in Celeste Rivas case as lawyers withdraw and family questions singer’s money

The legal battle surrounding singer D4VD and the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez has taken another suprising turn, with the singer now represented by a public defender after his high-profile private attorneys withdrew from the case.

D4VD, whose legal name is David Anthony Burke, appeared in court Monday and pleaded not guilty to murder with special circumstances, sexual abuse of a child under 14 and unlawful mutilation of human remains. His next court hearing is scheduled for October 19.

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D4VD claims he cannot afford private lawyers

A key issue surrounding the latest development is D4VD’s financial situation.

According to ABC7, the 21-year-old singer is now relying on a public defender after his private legal team, including attorneys Blair Berk and Marilynne Bednarski, was granted permission to withdraw. The reason for their departure was not publicly provided. Public defender Walid Kandeel has since taken over the defense.

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The change has drawn attention because previous testimony indicated that Burke had earned at least $10 million during his relatively short music career. Public defenders are generally appointed for defendants who cannot afford private representation.

Kandeel said his team would carefully examine the evidence and circumstances surrounding the case.

“We recognize the loss of life underlying the allegations and extend our sympathies to those who are grieving. 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,” Kandeel said.

Celeste Rivas’ family questions D4VD’s finances

The latest development has also triggered a strong reaction from Celeste Rivas Hernandez’s family.

Through their attorney, Patrick Steinfeld, the family questioned whether D4VD should qualify as unable to afford a private defense. They pointed to his substantial music success and the income discussed during earlier court proceedings.

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The family also alleged that Burke’s financial interests may be connected to various corporations. Those claims are allegations from the family and do not establish that Burke illegally concealed or transferred assets.

In its statement, the family expressed anger over the possibility that public funds could now be used for his defense.

“The residents of Los Angeles County should be outraged because it will be the taxpayers that are picking the tab to defend this millionaire...,” the family's statement read, according to ABC7.

The family also alleged that Burke had transferred assets to his mother and manager, Colleen Burke. Those allegations have not been established as fact in court.

D4VD remains accused in Celeste Rivas case

The financial dispute comes as the underlying criminal case moves toward trial.

A judge previously ruled that there was enough evidence for D4VD to stand trial following a preliminary hearing. Prosecutors have accused Burke of killing Celeste Rivas Hernandez and have presented evidence they say connects him to her death. Burke has pleaded not guilty.

The prosecution has also indicated that it could consider seeking the death penalty, although no final decision had been made as of Monday. Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said the change in defense lawyers does not alter the prosecution's position.

For now, D4VD will continue the case with the Los Angeles County Public Defender’s Office.

Celeste’s family says its focus is justice

Despite the dispute over D4VD’s finances and legal representation, Celeste’s family said its central concern remains the teenager.

“We as a family only want justice for Celeste and for whoever is responsible to face the full force of the law. And we thank everyone for supporting our daughter in every way,” the family said.

The case is expected to remain closely watched as D4VD prepares for his next court appearance on Oct. 19.