The family of Saviay’a Robinson, known as Lul Pab, does not oppose rapper Lil Durk’s request for release on bond while he awaits a second trial in his murder case.
Lil Durk, whose legal name is Durk Banks, was accused of participating in a murder-for-hire plot that resulted in Robinson’s death but was acquitted of all charges in September. Durk’s alleged co-conspirators, David Lindsey and DeAndre Wilson, were found guilty of stalking resulting in death but acquitted of the murder-for-hire charges.
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Banks’ defense team filed a motion requesting bond for the rapper on Tuesday, submitting seven letters of support for his release, including letters from JAY-Z, businessman Michael Rubin and rapper J. Cole.
Most notably, Robinson’s mother wrote a one-sentence letter stating that she did not object to Banks’ release if the court deemed it appropriate. Judge Michael Fitzgerald, who oversaw Banks’ previous trial and will review the defense’s motion, has repeatedly stated in court that he considers Robinson’s family’s feelings in the case.
Rubin’s two-page letter highlighted Banks’ activism, stating that the two met through their work with REFORM Alliance, an organization that aims to transform the parole system and provide incarcerated individuals with second chances. Rubin said Banks has demonstrated a commitment to the organization’s mission.
Former Cook County State’s Attorney Kim Foxx, who served in Banks’ home state of Illinois, also wrote a letter supporting his release.
“[Durk] spent nearly two years in custody awaiting that trial, on charges the jury rejected,” she wrote. “Given his acquittal and that presumption, I believe he should be released on reasonable conditions set by the Court.”
In the motion, Banks’ attorneys argue that the jury’s verdict weakens the government’s case and diminishes concerns that he would intimidate witnesses.
To address the court’s previous concerns about his finances and ability to flee, the defense has proposed a bond package that includes future earnings from music royalties, publishing rights, merchandise and other uses of his name and likeness, as well as touring income. The package would also include cash, property pledged by supporters and the home where his mother lives. Attorneys argue that fleeing would cost Banks his future income and leave his family and supporters financially devastated.
Following his acquittal, Banks released a statement on Instagram addressing young people. He warned that the choices children make do not determine their future and said “it’s never too late to choose a different direction.”
The defense also points to what it describes as Banks’ personal transformation, citing his sobriety, regular therapy and renewed commitment to his Muslim faith.
Banks still faces a second trial on a charge of violent crime in aid of racketeering (VICAR). The new indictment charges him with murder in aid of racketeering. To prove the charge, prosecutors must establish that Banks and his co-defendants committed murder under California law and that the killing was intended to maintain or increase their positions within the alleged criminal enterprise.
The new charges were added to Banks’ case on July 31, just weeks before the trial was scheduled to begin. Fitzgerald ruled that the charges were added too close to trial to be included in the August 2026 proceedings and severed them for a later trial.
The second trial was originally scheduled for October, but the defense filed a motion last month requesting more time to prepare. The judge granted the request and set a new trial date for Aug. 30, 2027.
Banks’ bond review hearing is scheduled for Nov. 4.
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