Judge Allows Lil Durk's Lyrics and Video Screenshots as Evidence in Murder-for-Hire Trial

Prosecutors can use select lyrics and video screenshots to establish motive, despite defense objections.

Feb. 17, 2026 at 2:15pm

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A federal judge has ruled that some of Lil Durk's song lyrics and music video screenshots can be used as evidence in the rapper's upcoming murder-for-hire trial. Prosecutors believe the material helps establish motive and links Durk to the alleged crime, while the defense argues it would unfairly prejudice the jury. The judge approved four lyrical excerpts and allowed screenshots of videos, but denied several other pieces of evidence the prosecution sought to include.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing debate over the use of creative works, such as rap lyrics, as evidence in criminal trials. Prosecutors often argue the material provides insight into a defendant's mindset and motives, but defense attorneys contend it unfairly portrays artists in a negative light and infringes on free speech protections.

The details

The judge ruled that four excerpts from 13 song lyrics prosecutors sought to submit could be used as evidence, after editing several of the excerpts. As for the music videos, the judge determined that screenshots, rather than whole videos, would be adequate as evidence. However, the judge didn't rule out the potential inclusion of a video that prosecutors allege was intended to serve as a bounty for the death of Durk's rival, Quando Rondo. The plan instead resulted in the murder of Rondo's cousin, Saviay'a Robinson (aka Lul Pab).

  • On February 9, 2026, a hearing was held where Durk's defense team argued against the use of his lyrics and videos as evidence.
  • On February 13, 2026, the judge ruled that select lyrics and video screenshots could be used, but denied several other pieces of evidence sought by prosecutors.
  • Another hearing is scheduled for February 23, 2026 to finalize the remaining evidence prosecutors want to submit for Durk's trial, which is scheduled to start on April 13, 2026.

The players

Lil Durk

A Chicago rapper accused of orchestrating a bounty on his rap rival, Quando Rondo.

Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald

The federal judge presiding over Lil Durk's murder-for-hire trial.

Drew Findling

Lil Durk's defense attorney, who is seeking to prevent the rapper's creative works from being entered as evidence.

Quando Rondo

Lil Durk's rap rival, whose cousin Saviay'a Robinson (aka Lul Pab) was allegedly murdered as part of the plan.

Saviay'a Robinson (aka Lul Pab)

Quando Rondo's cousin, who was allegedly murdered as part of the plan to target Quando Rondo.

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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

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

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Another hearing is scheduled for February 23, 2026 to finalize the remaining evidence prosecutors want to submit for Durk's trial, which is scheduled to start on April 13, 2026.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing debate over the use of creative works, such as rap lyrics, as evidence in criminal trials. Prosecutors often argue the material provides insight into a defendant's mindset and motives, but defense attorneys contend it unfairly portrays artists in a negative light and infringes on free speech protections.