D4Vd Preliminary Hearing: Celeste Rivas’ clothing introduced as new evidence at D4vd preliminary hearing
New evidence was presented in court on Thursday during a preliminary hearing for singer D4vd, whose real name is David Burke. Prosecutors called Los Angeles Police Department criminologist Lisa Lahendro to explain the condition of the clothing found on Celeste Rivas’ body. The court also heard additional testimony from forensic experts about evidence collected from Burke’s Tesla and Hollywood Hills homes. The hearing followed two days of emotional testimony, with Rivas’ family members watching as investigators described evidence related to the case. Burke has denied the charges against him.
Celeste Rivas’ costume becomes key piece of evidence D4vd Preliminary Hearing
Los Angeles Police Department criminologist Lisa Lahendro told the court that clothing found on Celeste Rivas’ body included a Victoria’s Secret thong, a Forever 21 bandeau top and leggings.She said the clothes were in poor condition. According to her testimony, the clothes were dirty, wet, infested with insects and had a strong smell.Lahendro also testified that detectives later found black fabric inside a trash bag in David Burke’s garage. Investigators said the fabrics were compared to Rivas’ clothing as part of the investigation.Disturbing photos of Rivas’ body were seen in court earlier this week. Her parents were in the courtroom as investigators described the evidence. Detectives testified that Rivas’ body was found in pieces, and several photos were shown during the hearing.
Court hears more testimony on Tesla, Garage and D4vd earnings
The hearing also included testimony from other LAPD forensic experts.Criminologist Chelsea Murillo said she examined Burke’s Tesla after Rivas’ body was removed. She told the court there was a very strong smell in the car that reminded her of a decomposing body. Murillo also said she found at least 11 air fresheners in the car, including some in the trunk and center console.Another criminologist, Lauren Wallace, testified that she searched Burke’s Hollywood Hills home for evidence. Tests found possible blood on the brick floor beneath the garage mat, she said.The court also heard testimony about Burke’s finances. Lewis Poimiroo, senior vice president of finance at Interscope Records, said Burke will earn about $2.77 million in 2025. Testimony shows that in the months after prosecutors say Rivas was killed, he continued to receive money from his music career.Burke was charged with special circumstances first-degree murder, mutilation of human remains and lewd and lascivious conduct involving a child under 14 years of age. Prosecutors also allege that he arranged for an Uber to take Rivas from his home in Lake Elsinore to his home in the Hollywood Hills on April 23, 2025.As preliminary hearings continue, 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 go to trial.
