The legal battle over whether rap lyrics and music videos can be used as evidence in the upcoming murder-for-hire trial of Lil Durk took a significant turn Friday, February 13, as Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald issued a mixed ruling. The decision, handed down after weeks of arguments and a hearing on February 9, represents both a win for prosecutors and a partial victory for the rapper, whose legal team vehemently opposed the inclusion of his creative work in the case. The core of the dispute centers on whether Durk’s lyrics and visuals connect him to the alleged plot to harm rival rapper Quando Rondo, a plan that prosecutors say ultimately led to the death of Rondo’s cousin, Saviay’a Robinson.
The case has drawn national attention, sparking a broader debate about the use of artistic expression as criminal evidence. Many artists and legal scholars have argued that admitting lyrics into evidence risks criminalizing creativity and unfairly prejudicing juries. The question of how to balance protecting artistic freedom with pursuing justice remains at the forefront of this high-profile trial, which is examining the complex intersection of music, violence and alleged criminal conspiracy. The judge’s rulings on February 13 are a crucial step in defining the scope of evidence that will be presented to a jury.
Video Evidence Largely Limited, One Video Remains in Contention
Regarding the nine music videos prosecutors sought to introduce, Judge Fitzgerald largely sided with the defense, ruling that screenshots from the videos would suffice in most instances. The judge reasoned that the primary purpose of the videos, as argued by prosecutors, was to demonstrate relationships between individuals, a point that could be effectively conveyed through still images. However, one video remains under consideration. Prosecutors claim this particular video was presented as a reward for co-defendants involved in the alleged plot against Quando Rondo. If the government can successfully argue that the video directly proves the existence of a bounty, and that its presentation wouldn’t be overly prejudicial, the judge indicated he would allow its inclusion as evidence.
Four Lyrics Admitted, Five Denied, Four Under Further Review
The judge’s ruling on the 13 lyrical excerpts was similarly nuanced. Four excerpts were deemed admissible, while five were denied outright. In some instances, the judge allowed portions of the excerpts while excluding others. The remaining four lyrics will be considered further, contingent on the prosecution’s ability to demonstrate their “probative value” – their relevance and usefulness in proving a key fact – at a hearing scheduled for February 23. The judge specifically noted that lyrics refused as evidence often described actions similar to those alleged in the case, such as following and shooting at someone in a vehicle, but lacked a direct connection to the specific incident involving Saviay’a Robinson.
The judge stated there was “virtually no evidence of when these lyrics were written or even recorded,” further weakening the prosecution’s argument for their inclusion. One lyric the judge considered, but ultimately required further justification for, included the line, “Fool his ass, he feel we buyin’ some cars, we hop out, scoom his ass,” which the judge acknowledged had a “moderate level of relevance” but lacked a clear link to the alleged crime.
Additional Evidence Allowed: Social Media and Past Conflicts
Beyond the lyrics and videos, Judge Fitzgerald also ruled on other pieces of evidence. Comments from fans appearing on Durk’s X (formerly Twitter) account will be permitted, bolstering the prosecution’s theory that Durk was under public pressure to avenge the 2020 killing of King Von, another rapper. Prosecutors allege this pressure motivated Durk to target Quando Rondo. King Von’s death has been a central point of contention in the case, with prosecutors attempting to establish a motive for the alleged plot. Durk’s 2023 comments on DJ Akademiks’ podcast regarding this pressure will also be admissible. These comments, originally made on a podcast, were shared widely on social media.
As of February 14, 2026, Durk’s legal team has not publicly commented on the judge’s ruling, according to reporting from Complex.
The next hearing in the case, scheduled for February 23, will be critical as prosecutors attempt to further justify the inclusion of the four remaining lyrical excerpts. The outcome of that hearing will significantly shape the evidence presented at trial and could have lasting implications for the use of rap lyrics in criminal proceedings. Those following the case can discover updates through court filings and reporting from major news outlets.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of violence, resources are available. You can reach the National Crisis and Suicide Lifeline by calling or texting 988 in the US and Canada, or by dialing 111 in the UK.
