New evidence was presented in court Thursday during the preliminary hearing for singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke. Prosecutors called LAPD criminal Lisa LaHendro to explain the condition of the clothing found with Celeste Rivas’ body. The courtroom also heard further testimony from forensic experts about evidence collected from Burke’s Tesla and Hollywood Hills home. The hearing followed two days of emotional testimony, with Rivas’ family watching as investigators described evidence related to the case. Burke has denied the allegations against him.
Celeste Rivas’s clothes have become the main evidence D4vd preliminary hearing
LAPD criminal Lisa LaHandro told the court that clothing found with Celeste Rivas’ body included a Victoria’s Secret thong, Forever 21 tube top and leggings.She said that the clothes were in very bad condition. According to his testimony, they were very dirty, very wet, covered with many insects and had a very strong smell.Lahandro also testified that detectives later found pieces of black clothing inside a trash bag in David Burke’s garage. Investigators said the clothing was compared to Rivas’ clothing as part of the investigation.Earlier in the week, the court was shown disturbing photographs of Rivas’ body. Her parents were present in the courtroom when investigators described the evidence. Detectives testified that Rivas’ body was found in dismembered pieces, and several photographs were shown during the hearing.
Court hears more testimony about Tesla, Garage and D4vd’s earnings
The hearing also included testimony from other LAPD forensic experts.Prosecutor Chelsea Murillo said she examined Burke’s Tesla after Rivas’ body was recovered. He told the court that there was a strong smell coming from the car which reminded him of a rotting body. Murillo also said he found at least 11 air fresheners inside the vehicle, including some in the trunk and center console.Another convict, Lauren Wallace, testified that she searched Burke’s Hollywood Hills home for evidence. He said the investigation found possible blood stains on the brick floor under the mat in the garage.The court also heard testimony about Burke’s financial situation. Lewis Poimiru, senior vice president of finance at Interscope Records, said Burke will make about $2.77 million in 2025. Testimony revealed that Rivas continued to receive money from his music career for months after prosecutors said he was murdered.Burke is charged with first-degree murder with special circumstances, mutilation of human remains and lewd and lascivious acts with a child under the age of 14. Prosecutors also allege that they arranged for an Uber to bring Rivas from his family home in Lake Elsinore to his Hollywood Hills home on April 23, 2025.As the preliminary hearing continues, prosecutors are presenting forensic evidence and witness testimony to support their case. The court will later decide whether there is enough evidence for the case to proceed to trial.