Recording Artist D4vd Enters Not Guilty Plea

Recording artist D4vd, legally known as David Anthony Burke, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The plea was entered on Monday, marking the beginning of a high-profile criminal case.

Details of the Charges

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges, which include first-degree murder with special circumstances. These circumstances, according to the prosecution, suggest the crime involved lying in wait, potential financial motives to protect Burke’s career, and witness silencing.

Potential Sentencing

If convicted, Burke could face life imprisonment without parole or the death penalty. He also faces additional charges of continuous sexual exploitation of a minor and mutilation of human remains.

Timeline of Events

The case began in September 2025, when authorities discovered the dismembered body of Rivas Hernandez, who had been missing since 2024. The remains were found in two bags within an abandoned Tesla registered to Burke, located in a Hollywood Hills neighborhood.

Discovery of Remains

Police responded to reports of a foul odor from the impounded vehicle, leading to the discovery. The medical examiner listed the date of death as September 8, 2025, but the official cause of death is pending further forensic analysis.

Investigation and Initial Response

District Attorney Hochman expressed sympathy for the victim’s family and pledged a thorough legal strategy. Burke had cancelled several tour dates in September 2025, citing being informed of the situation.

Conflicting Reports

However, law enforcement sources suggest Burke’s cooperation with investigators was less transparent than initially stated.

Defense Strategy

Defense attorneys maintain Burke’s innocence, arguing that evidence will exonerate him and refute the prosecution’s claims. They emphasized that no grand jury indictment was issued prior to the recent filings and intend to vigorously challenge the state’s case.

Ongoing Legal Process

The legal community and public are closely watching the case as the prosecution prepares to link forensic findings to the charges. The trial is expected to receive significant media coverage due to the defendant’s celebrity status and the tragic nature of the victim’s death.