- Attorneys say Lil Durk has been held in solitary for 131 days at the Los Angeles Metropolitan Detention Center.
- Defense files motion (Jan. 6) requesting a status hearing, alleging violations of federal rules and possible Eighth Amendment concerns.
- Lawyers claim Durk was isolated after guards found an “unauthorized Apple Watch,” with restricted commissary access and limited phone contact.
- The legal team cites research on psychological harm from extended solitary confinement and disputes conflicting reasons given by jail officials.
Defense Seeks Hearing After 131 Days in Isolation
Lil Durk’s legal team filed a motion on Jan. 6 requesting a status hearing, saying the rapper has been held in solitary confinement at the Los Angeles Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) for 131 days. In the motion, attorney Christy O’Connor argues the placement occurred without proper process and may violate federal regulations and the Eighth Amendment.
Allegations: Apple Watch Led to Isolation
According to the motion, the MDC placed Durk in a small cell — large enough only for a bed, toilet and sink — after staff allegedly found him in possession of an unauthorized Apple Watch. The defense says Durk has been denied commissary privileges and is limited to a single phone call per month, with no in-person visits allowed.
Conflicting Explanations From Jail Officials
Durk’s lawyers say the Bureau of Prisons and MDC staff have provided inconsistent reasons for the extended isolation. Initially, an attorney for the facility reportedly told the defense the placement was unrelated to Durk’s celebrity. Later, the warden allegedly told the defense team that Durk posed a risk to the public because of the high-profile nature of his case and potential rule violations.
Citing Psychological Harm
The motion references research on the mental health effects of prolonged solitary confinement, including anxiety, depression and social withdrawal. Durk’s legal team argues those documented harms bolster their request to contest the length and conditions of his isolation.
Case Context: Murder-for-Hire Charges and Court Delays
Durk faces a high-profile murder-for-hire case that has already produced legal maneuvers from both sides. In October, prosecutors asked for an anonymous jury and warned of safety concerns tied to Durk’s “vast resources” and influence over his label. Co-defendants and prosecutors recently requested a trial delay that would move the start date from Jan. 20 to May 4.
What’s Next
The motion seeks a status hearing to address the alleged violations and the continued solitary placement. The Bureau of Prisons and MDC have not publicly confirmed the details of the motion’s claims. The court will decide whether to schedule a hearing and what, if any, immediate relief may be granted.
This story may develop as courts respond to the defense filing and MDC officials provide further comment.
Image Referance: https://www.complex.com/music/a/treyalston/lil-durk-apple-watch-solitary-confinement
