After just over two weeks of proceedings, the murder-for-hire trial involving Chicago rapper Lil Durk has officially concluded, with the artist being found not guilty on all charges. The verdict, delivered on Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, marks a significant legal victory for the 33-year-old, who has been at the center of a high-profile case involving allegations of retaliation and organized violence.
Following three days of deliberation, a Los Angeles jury returned the not guilty verdict at 8 p.m. ET. While Lil Durk was acquitted, his co-defendants, Deandre Dontrell Wilson (OTF Dede) and David Brian Lindsey (Browneyez), were convicted on counts of stalking and stalking conspiracy, though they were also cleared of the murder-for-hire charge. Despite this acquittal, Lil Durk remains in custody as he faces a separate, pending trial for racketeering-related charges, scheduled to begin on Oct. 5.
Trial Details and Jury Deliberations
The trial, which began with jury selection on Aug. 20, saw jurors spend nearly eight hours reviewing evidence. The process included requests for digital evidence and clarification on legal definitions, specifically regarding “intent” and the nuances of conspiracy to commit stalking. The jury considered five distinct counts, ranging from conspiracy to commit stalking to the use of interstate commerce facilities in a murder-for-hire plot resulting in death.
Prosecutors had alleged that Lil Durk orchestrated a plot to kill Quando Rondo in 2022 as retaliation for the November 2020 death of King Von. While the intended target was not struck, the incident resulted in the death of Quando Rondo’s cousin, Saviay’a “Lul Pab” Robinson. The defense, led by attorney Marissa Goldberg, shifted the focus toward co-defendant Vonnie, who had previously pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with the government.
Support and Future Legal Challenges
The courtroom atmosphere was charged with emotion as the verdict was read. Reports indicate that Lil Durk was visibly moved, with his wife, India Royale, and his mother present in the gallery. Throughout the trial, the rapper received support from various peers and family members, including his father, Durk Banks Sr., G Herbo, Dreezy, Doodie Lo, and MGK.
While this specific trial has ended in an acquittal, the legal road ahead for Lil Durk remains complex. With the upcoming racketeering trial, the focus now shifts to the next phase of the government’s case against the artist. The outcome of this recent trial serves as a pivotal moment in a case that has captivated the hip-hop community and legal observers alike.