Lil Durk murder-for-hire trial begins in Los Angeles

The federal murder-for-hire trial of Grammy-winning rapper Lil Durk, born Durk Banks, commenced in Los Angeles. Prosecutors allege Banks orchestrated a 2022 retaliatory ambush against rival rapper Quando Rondo in response to the 2020 killing of his associate, King Von. The botched attack near the Beverly Center resulted in the death of Rondo's cousin, Saviay’a Robinson.

Federal authorities claim Banks used his wealth and ‘coded language’ to finance the hit, including travel and lodging for associates. The prosecution intends to present Banks’s music, including the song ‘Pissed Me Off’, as evidence of motive and retaliation. Several cooperating witnesses, including former personal assistant Kavon Grant and alleged shooters, are expected to testify.

Defense attorney Marissa Goldberg maintains Banks's innocence, arguing he had no involvement in the shooting. The defense contends that Grant, a former employee, is attempting to minimize his own criminal responsibility by falsely labeling Banks as the ‘big fish’ to secure a lighter sentence. Banks has pleaded not guilty to charges including conspiracy, stalking resulting in death, and murder-for-hire.