A Los Angeles courtroom heard explosive new allegations this week as prosecutors claimed that singer D4vd possessed a 'significant amount' of child sexual abuse material on his mobile phone, intensifying an already high-profile murder case involving a 14-year-old girl.
The claims emerged during a status hearing held on 23 April 2026, exactly one year after prosecutors allege the artist killed Celeste Rivas Hernandez. The hearing focused on procedural timelines ahead of a preliminary hearing scheduled for 1 May 2026. Prosecutors also disclosed additional investigative measures, including a previously undisclosed wiretap, as the case moves towards trial.
D4vd, who has pleaded not guilty, remains in custody as his defence team challenges the prosecution's handling and disclosure of evidence.
During the hearing, Los Angeles County prosecutors told the court that a forensic review of the defendant's iPhone uncovered what they described as a 'significant amount' of child sexual abuse material. Officials did not specify whether the material allegedly found on the device involved the victim in the case.
The prosecution also revealed that investigators utilised a wiretap during the inquiry, though details regarding the scope, timing and content of intercepted communications were not disclosed in open court. Such surveillance typically requires judicial authorisation under California law, suggesting the investigation had reached an advanced evidentiary stage prior to the arrest.
Deputy District Attorney Beth Silverman acknowledged delays in evidence disclosure, telling the court that materials were still being processed. She indicated that proceedings before three separate investigative grand juries had contributed to the volume and complexity of evidence yet to be shared with the defence.
Grand jury transcripts, which may include sworn testimony and evidentiary summaries, are expected to become available at a later stage, potentially shaping arguments at the preliminary hearing.
🚨 BREAKING: D4vd had tons of child pornography on his phone, prosecutors claim.https://t.co/vQviW94ItJpic.twitter.com/2y04V2cdJz
D4vd's legal team, led by prominent defence attorney Blair Berk, raised concerns that prosecutors had not yet turned over key evidence necessary to prepare for the upcoming preliminary hearing. The defence pressed for either immediate disclosure or a delay in proceedings, arguing that proceeding without full access would compromise the accused's ability to mount an effective defence.
Despite these objections, prosecutors told the court they would be ready to proceed on 1 May and signalled their intention to move to trial within 60 days. That timeline reflects an effort to expedite the case, which involves serious charges and extensive forensic evidence.
Source: International Business Times UK
