Lil Durk remains in federal custody after a judge denied his latest bond request on May 8, 2025, ruling that “nothing has changed to warrant release.” The decision marks another setback in a high-stakes murder-for-hire case that has gripped fans and sparked debate about music, crime, and justice.
Lil Durk, born Durk Derrick Banks, is charged with serious federal charges that are related to a plot for a 2022 murder for hire. Prosecutors indicate that the Chicago artist planned a hit on fellow rapper Quando Rondo, supposedly as revenge for the murder of Durk’s close associate and fellow collaborator, King Von, who was killed in 2020. The plot went wrong, and Rondo’s cousin, Saviay’a “Lul Pab” Robinson, was killed in a shooting at a Los Angeles gas station.
Durk, 32, has pleaded not guilty. If convicted, he could face life in prison. The case has drawn attention not just for its severity but for its ties to the gritty world of Chicago’s drill rap scene, where Durk is a leading figure.
The drama began on October 24, 2024, when U.S. Marshals arrested Durk in Florida. Authorities claimed he was trying to flee the country, pointing to booked international flights to Dubai and Switzerland. He was extradited to Los Angeles, where he’s been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center.
Durk has several charges: conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, firearm use in a crime of violence, and a newly added charge in April 2025—stalking that resulted in death. Prosecutors allege Durk paid five men, linked to his Only the Family (OTF) collective, to track and kill Rondo. The group reportedly used OTF credit cards for flights and hotel stays, and one firearm was modified into a machine gun.
Durk’s legal team has fought hard to secure his release. They’ve offered bond packages worth over $3 million, including $1 million in cash, $900,000 in real estate, and even 24/7 armed security to monitor him. But judges have rejected these proposals, citing Durk’s influence over others and his behavior in custody. Reports of unauthorized phone calls, including three-way calls, have hurt his case. Prosecutors argue he’s a flight risk and a danger to the community.
“Mr. Banks remains confident and optimistic,” his attorney, Jonathan Brayman, told reporters after the latest denial. “We’re disappointed but will keep fighting.”
A major point of contention is the prosecution’s use of Durk’s rap lyrics as evidence. Songs like “Wonderful Wayne & Jackie Boy” were initially cited as proof of his intent, but Durk’s team argued the lyrics were written months before the shooting and are artistic, not literal. Facing pushback, prosecutors dropped the lyrics and claims of a bounty on Rondo from the case in May 2025. Still, they insist other evidence—text messages, surveillance footage, and witness statements—keeps Durk behind bars.
Durk’s family has called the case a “miscarriage of justice.” In a statement, they said,
“Using his music against him is unfair and violates due process. Durk is an artist, not a criminal mastermind.”
While locked up, Durk has stayed busy. He’s reportedly learning Arabic, reflecting on his spirituality, and keeping a calm demeanor. “He’s charming and agreeable,” a source from the detention center said. These glimpses of his life in custody contrast with the prosecution’s portrayal of him as a dangerous figure.
The case has sparked heated discussion, especially on X, where fans rally behind Durk with hashtags like #FreeDurk. His 2024 album, Deep Thoughts, hit #3 on the Billboard 200 despite his incarceration, proving his musical influence endures. Yet, critics point to the case as evidence of ongoing violence in hip-hop.
one supporter wrote on X.
“He’s been trying to change the narrative,”
Durk’s recent efforts to promote peace add complexity. In 2024, he unveiled a Chicago mural honoring victims of violence, a move fans say shows his growth.
