Los Angeles prosecutors have alleged that the rapper D4vd, charged with the murder of 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, possessed a significant amount of child pornography. The images were reportedly found on the iCloud account of David Anthony Burke, the 21-year-old musician known as D4vd.
During a court hearing on Thursday, prosecutor Beth Silverman stated that police discovered the material after executing a search warrant on Burke's phone and iCloud storage. The images came to light during the investigation into Celeste's death; her dismembered remains were found in September in the boot of a Tesla registered to Burke, abandoned in the Hollywood Hills.
Burke has pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder, continuous sexual abuse of a child under 14, and unlawful mutilation of remains. His legal team argues that he did not kill the girl and that evidence will show he was not responsible for her death.
The case has seen rapid developments since Burke's arrest last week. Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan Hochman said Burke engaged in a sexual relationship with Celeste that began when she was 13, and authorities believe he killed her to prevent her from reporting the relationship and to protect his music career. Celeste went missing on 23 April 2025 after visiting Burke's home.
The medical examiner revealed that Celeste died from penetrating injuries, including a wound to the liver. Burke has exercised his right to a preliminary hearing within 10 court days, requiring prosecutors to present evidence quickly. Silverman noted that investigators have collected about 40 terabytes of data, including sensitive materials, which will take time to share.
Celeste's parents, Jesus Rivas and Mercedes Martinez, have called for justice, describing their daughter as “a beautiful, strong girl who loved to sing and dance”. Burke remains in custody, with a hearing scheduled for next week.
