The family of Celeste Rivas Hernandez has publicly denied rumors that they received a large payment from D4vd, the recording artist accused of her murder.
According to court documents, D4vd, whose real name is David Burke, allegedly began sexually abusing Rivas Hernandez at the age of 13 and murdered her after she threatened to disclose their relationship.
Burke faces charges of murder, ongoing sexual abuse of a minor, and corpse mutilation, with prosecutors not disclosing if they intend to pursue the death penalty.
Celeste's father, Jesus Rivas, stated that the family had no contact with D4vd and did not receive any money from him or his family.
The origin of the rumors is believed to have started on social media site Reddit, with a writer for Los Angeles Magazine tracing the posts to Celeste's hometown of Lake Elsinore.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 26 to determine if D4vd should face trial, with evidence and witnesses expected to be presented.
