During opening statements in Lil Durk‘s high-profile murder-for-hire trial, federal prosecutors have officially revealed the identities of several cooperating witnesses. The list includes Kacey “OTF Jam” Hester and two individuals allegedly hired by the rapper to carry out a targeted attack on Quando Rondo.
On Monday, August 24, 2026, the prosecution presented their case at the Los Angeles federal courthouse, asserting that Lil Durk acted as the ringleader in a plot to eliminate Quando Rondo. The alleged motive was retaliation for the 2020 death of King Von, who was killed by Lul Timm, an associate of Quando Rondo. While the ambush at a Los Angeles gas station in 2022 failed to kill Rondo, it resulted in the tragic death of his cousin, Saviay’a “Lul Pab” Robinson.
Key Witnesses and Evidence
According to reports from digital creator Melanie Goolsby, prosecutors confirmed that Kacey “OTF Jam” Hester, Kavon “OTF Vonni” Grant, and Keith Jones are set to testify. The government also claims to possess unseen footage documenting multiple attempts on Rondo’s life. Grant and Jones are identified as alleged hitmen, alongside Deandre Dontrell Wilson and David Brian Lindsey.
Rumors regarding “OTF Jam” cooperating with federal authorities surfaced shortly after Lil Durk’s arrest in October 2024. Reports suggest that Hester gathered information for the government while wearing a wire in an effort to mitigate charges related to a 2023 gun case.
Defense Strategy
Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Weiner emphasized to the jury that the case is centered on allegations of murder rather than the defendant’s music career, noting that Durk was allegedly driven by a desire for revenge. Conversely, the defense team, led by attorney Marissa Goldberg, maintains that Lil Durk was neither present at the scene nor involved in the plot. The defense has pointed toward co-defendant “OTF Vonni”—the rapper’s former personal assistant—who has already pleaded guilty and agreed to cooperate with the prosecution.
As the trial progresses, the court has been presented with graphic evidence, including autopsy photos and footage of the fatal shooting, which has been viewed by various attendees, including YouTuber Charles Ross and rapper MGK. The proceedings are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, August 25.
