Lil Durk Lyrics & Videos Admissible in Murder-for-Hire Trial

Judge's rulings highlight complexities of using artistic expression as evidence in criminal cases.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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The ongoing Lil Durk case in a Los Angeles federal courtroom is the latest flashpoint in the debate over the use of rap lyrics and music videos as evidence in criminal trials. Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald has made several key rulings, allowing some lyrics and screenshots from music videos to be admitted, while denying other evidence and considering the inclusion of a specific video that prosecutors claim offers a bounty for harm to Quando Rondo.

Why it matters

This case highlights the broader legal battle over the extent to which an artist's creative work can be used against them in a criminal trial, raising concerns about the potential chilling effect on artistic expression and the disproportionate impact on artists of color.

The details

Prosecutors are increasingly turning to rap lyrics as evidence, arguing they offer insight into a defendant's mindset, affiliations, and potential criminal intent. However, defense attorneys argue that lyrics are often hyperbolic and metaphorical, and should be considered artistic expression, not literal confessions. The judge in the Durk case has taken a cautious approach, allowing some lyrics while editing others and compromising on the use of music videos by permitting screenshots instead of full footage.

  • The Lil Durk case is currently unfolding in a Los Angeles federal courtroom.

The players

Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald

The judge presiding over the Lil Durk case, who has made several key rulings on the admissibility of lyrics and music videos as evidence.

Drew Findling

A defense attorney who argues that rap lyrics should be considered artistic expression, not literal confessions.

Lil Durk

The rapper at the center of the ongoing murder-for-hire trial in Los Angeles.

Quando Rondo

A rapper involved in a feud with Lil Durk, whose cousin's death is at the center of the murder-for-hire allegations.

Saviay'a Robinson

Quando Rondo's cousin, whose death is at the center of the murder-for-hire allegations against Lil Durk.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the specific video that prosecutors claim offers a bounty for harm to Quando Rondo.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing legal battle over the use of artistic expression as evidence in criminal trials, raising concerns about the potential chilling effect on creativity and the disproportionate impact on artists of color. The outcome of the Lil Durk case could influence how courts handle similar cases in the future, potentially shaping the legal landscape for artists and free speech.