Jay-Z and J. Cole Urge Judge to Release Lil Durk on Bail After Murder-for-Hire Acquittal
Two of rap's biggest names are supporting Durk, who was found not guilty of taking out a hit but remains in jail on an additional racketeering charge.
Jay-Z and J. Cole have written to a federal judge in support of Lil Durk's request for bail following his acquittal on murder-for-hire charges. The Chicago rapper was found not guilty last month of allegedly orchestrating the shooting of another rapper, Quando Rondo. Durk is currently in custody while awaiting a second racketeering trial.
In his letter, Jay-Z described Durk as "kind, respectful and focused on his career" when they met several years ago. He also highlighted Durk's efforts to help young artists from his community by signing them to recording contracts. J. Cole focused on their collaborative work on the 2023 hit "All My Life," which earned a Grammy for best melodic rap performance.
Both rappers noted that Durk has matured and is committed to using his art for positive change. Durk's attorneys argue that his acquittal has altered his flight risk, and they have prepared a bond package that includes his future earnings, touring income, and name, image, and likeness rights. A hearing to review Durk's bond is scheduled for November 4. The prosecution opposes Durk's release.
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