Judge Holds Lil Durk Bond Ruling
Federal Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald postponed a decision on the Chicago rapper's release while he awaits trial on racketeering charges.
By Chioma Brooks ·
Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald postponed a bond hearing for Chicago rapper Lil Durk on Wednesday, Nov. 4, leaving the musician in federal custody. The judge in Los Angeles said he needed more time to review arguments before deciding if Durk Banks can be released while awaiting his next trial.
Durk was acquitted of five murder-for-hire charges in September. He still faces racketeering charges. His next trial is scheduled to begin on Aug. 30, 2027. Co-defendants Deandre “OTF DeDe” Wilson, David Lindsay, and Asa “OTF Boogie” Houston are also part of that case.
Fitzgerald acknowledged that “a great deal has changed” since the acquittal. However, he stated that he still considers the rapper a potential danger to the community. The judge pointed to Durk’s alleged attempt to flee before his arrest in September 2024. He said Durk had “indisputably attempted to flee,” though he questioned if the move came from “guilt or panic.”
Durk’s legal team argued that incarceration for nearly another year before trial is excessive. Lead attorney Drew Findling noted that Jay-Z, Michael Rubin, and J. Cole submitted letters supporting release. Attorney Brian Steel called the prospect of keeping Durk locked up until trial “unthinkable.” Attorney Christy O’Connor told the judge that Durk understands the consequences of violating release conditions.
Prosecutors filed a document hours before the hearing. They argued that Durk remains a flight risk and a public danger. They claimed the acquittal did not change that assessment. Prosecutors also accused him of violating jail rules. These violations include using other inmates’ phone access, making unauthorized three-way calls, and smuggling communication devices into the facility.
The proposed bond package includes Durk’s mother’s home, cash, and property from supporters. It also includes guarantees that the court can access his royalties and publishing income if he flees. The case involves the August 2022 killing of Saviay’a “Lul Pab” Robinson in Beverly Hills. Prosecutors alleged the killing was retaliation for the 2020 death of King Von.
