Feds claim the rapper’s own words could play a major role in the upcoming murder-for-hire trial.

Federal Prosecutors Build Case Against Lil Durk Using DJ Akademiks Interview Clip

Federal authorities are intensifying their case against Chicago rapper Lil Durk, and prosecutors now believe he may have incriminated himself during a recent interview with DJ Akademiks.

According to newly filed court documents, U.S. Attorney Bilal A. Essayli alleges that Durk directed and financed a murder-for-hire plot, which the rapper has denied. In the documents, Essayli states:

“Lil Durk is not on trial for his lyrics or his music; he is on trial because he directed, orchestrated, and financed the brazen murder plot at issue in this case.”

He also accused Durk of threatening witnesses and their families, pushing back against motions to dismiss the indictment or unseal grand jury records.

Prosecutors Shift Focus From Lyrics to Interview Footage

 

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Earlier this month, the use of rap lyrics as evidence was barred in Durk’s case — a major shift in strategy for the prosecution. Now, they are relying on an interview the rapper gave to DJ Akademiks, which aired around the time of his arrest.

In the clip, Akademiks asks Lil Durk about online chatter urging him to “slide for [King] Von,” a phrase referencing retaliation for the 2020 death of Durk’s close friend. Prosecutors claim that Durk’s response may be interpreted as an admission, adding new weight to the ongoing federal case.

Background on the Case: Lil Durk’s Legal Battle Explained

Lil Durk has been held in federal custody since October 2024 on charges related to murder-for-hire and firearm possession. Authorities allege he ordered a hit on rival rapper Quando Rondo, which instead led to the death of Rondo’s cousin in 2022.

The rapper has consistently denied the allegations, and his legal team has filed multiple motions to have the charges dismissed according to All Hip Hop.

Lil Durk Remains Active While Behind Bars

Despite his incarceration, Lil Durk has remained productive. In March 2025, he released a new studio album titled Deep Thoughts. He also recently spoke with DJ Akademiks by phone, discussing his case and revealing that he’s been learning Arabic while in jail.

What’s Next?

Lil Durk’s trial is set to begin on October 14, 2025. As prosecutors build their case, the DJ Akademiks interview could play a central role in determining the outcome.

Stay tuned to Worldwide Entertainment TV for exclusive updates on this developing story and more from the world of hip-hop and urban culture.