A federal jury has officially found Lil Durk not guilty of plotting to kill Georgia rapper Quando Rondo. The artist, who has been held in federal custody since 2024, faced serious allegations including conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, conspiracy to commit stalking, and stalking resulting in death. The acquittal marks a significant legal victory for the Grammy-winning rapper, who has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
Prosecutors had built their case on the theory that the artist worked alongside five men associated with his Only the Family (OTF) collective to orchestrate an attack on Quando Rondo, born Tyquian Bowman. The government alleged the plot was an act of retaliation for the 2020 murder of Durk’s close friend, King Von. Timothy “Lul Timm” Leeks, who was previously identified by prosecutors as an associate of Bowman’s, had been charged with the killing of King Von, though those charges were eventually dropped.
The Prosecution’s Case and Defense Strategy
The federal government’s strategy relied heavily on the testimony of Durk’s former associates, who had previously pleaded guilty to charges related to the case. A point of contention throughout the trial was the prosecution’s attempt to introduce the artist’s lyrics as evidence. This tactic, which has been widely criticized by First Amendment advocates and artists alike, was partially permitted by Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald, who allowed the admission of specific lyrics referencing the artist’s state of mind following the death of King Von.
The defense, led by Brian Steel—notably known for his representation of Young Thug during the YSL trial—argued that the government’s case was fundamentally flawed. The defense team contended that the witnesses providing testimony were motivated by a desire to avoid life sentences rather than a commitment to the truth. Kavon Grant, known as OTF Vonnie, alleged that the artist promised financial compensation for the murder of Bowman. Conversely, Kacey Hester, or OTF Jam, testified that he was part of the group that trailed Bowman, ultimately resulting in the death of Bowman’s cousin, Saviay’a Tilal “Lul Pab” Robinson. Hester claimed, “It’s Durk’s fault. Durk put us in the situation.”
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
Despite this acquittal, the artist remains in federal custody. He is currently awaiting an additional trial concerning separate racketeering charges that were severed from the initial case. First assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli issued a statement following the verdict, noting that while the office was disappointed with the jury’s decision, they remain prepared to present their evidence during the upcoming trial, which is currently scheduled for October 5.