Jakarta, ThedailyID — Prosecutors in the United States say D4vd possessed “a significant amount” of images depicting child sexual abuse, adding a new layer to his ongoing murder case.
Authorities discovered the material on devices belonging to David Anthony Burke during their investigation into the death of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez. Investigators obtained the evidence through search warrants, prosecutors told the court on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
However, prosecutors have not filed separate charges related to the alleged images.
The case focuses on the killing of Rivas Hernandez. Police found her dismembered body inside a Tesla linked to Burke in Los Angeles in September 2025 after receiving reports of a foul odor.
Prosecutors allege Burke repeatedly abused the victim before killing her and dismembering the body. They claim he acted to protect his music career.
Burke has pleaded not guilty to all charges, including murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child, and mutilation of remains.
His legal team rejected the accusations. “We will vigorously defend David’s innocence,” his attorneys said, adding that evidence will show he did not commit the crime.
Investigators said the victim’s family reported her missing after she was last seen on April 3, 2025, at Burke’s home in Hollywood Hills.
An autopsy confirmed that Rivas Hernandez died from multiple penetrating injuries. Officials also confirmed that her body had been dismembered and severely decomposed when authorities found it.
Nathan Hochman and Jim McDonnell said investigators have collected extensive digital and forensic evidence.
Meanwhile, the victim’s family urged authorities to deliver justice. “Celeste was a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance,” her parents said in a statement.
The case has drawn widespread attention as Burke rose to fame through viral songs like Romantic Homicide. He canceled his global tour after the allegations surfaced and has largely stepped away from public life.
The court has scheduled two additional hearings for next week. Judges will review the evidence and decide whether the case proceeds to trial.
Overall, prosecutors continue to build their case as the investigation moves forward.
