The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has launched an internal investigation after allegations that employees improperly accessed or leaked confidential case files related to the high-profile murder case involving singer D4vd. The inquiry comes after sensitive details from the death investigation of teenager Celeste Rivas Hernandez appeared in media reports before the official autopsy records were released.
The investigation has raised fresh concerns about the handling of confidential forensic information, victim privacy, and security protocols within one of California’s most important forensic agencies.
Why the Investigation Began
According to reports, more than a dozen employees—including investigators and administrative staff—have been ordered to participate in recorded interviews conducted as part of an internal inquiry.
County officials are attempting to determine whether employees improperly viewed confidential investigation files without authorization or disclosed sensitive information to outside parties. The inquiry reportedly began after media outlets published graphic details about the case before the Medical Examiner officially released its findings.
The D4vd Murder Case
The investigation centers on the criminal case involving singer D4vd, whose legal name is David Burke.
Prosecutors allege Burke murdered 14-year-old Celeste Rivas Hernandez, whose remains were discovered in September 2025 inside a Tesla registered to him after the vehicle had been impounded in Los Angeles. Authorities later charged him with first-degree murder along with additional serious offenses connected to the case.
Burke has pleaded not guilty, and the criminal proceedings remain ongoing.
Why the Medical Examiner’s Files Were Sealed
The Los Angeles Police Department requested that the Medical Examiner withhold the autopsy report during the active homicide investigation.
Initially, the Medical Examiner declined to block public access, stating there was insufficient legal authority to do so. Investigators later obtained a court order sealing the records until prosecutors determined that releasing the information would no longer interfere with the investigation.
The autopsy report remained under seal for several months before eventually being released in April 2026.
What Employees Are Accused Of
Investigators are not publicly alleging that every employee committed misconduct. Instead, officials are examining whether staff members:
- Accessed confidential case files without work-related authorization.
- Shared sensitive investigative information with unauthorized individuals.
- Violated county privacy or data security policies.
- Improperly handled confidential forensic records.
At this stage, no criminal charges have been announced against any Medical Examiner employee, and the investigation remains administrative.
County Officials Decline to Comment
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner has confirmed only that it does not comment on ongoing personnel investigations.
Because the inquiry is still active, county officials have not identified the employees involved or disclosed whether disciplinary action may follow.
Unions Respond to the Investigation
The unions representing Medical Examiner employees acknowledged that some members have received notices requiring them to participate in interviews.
The Los Angeles County Professional Peace Officers Association (PPOA), which represents investigators, said it expects the county to conduct a fair and unbiased investigation and urged the public not to reach conclusions before the process is complete.
SEIU Local 721, representing many administrative employees, emphasized its commitment to protecting the privacy of victims and confidential records while declining to discuss the specifics of the investigation.
Why the Alleged Leaks Matter
Medical Examiner records often contain highly sensitive information, including:
- Autopsy findings
- Crime scene observations
- Medical evidence
- Victim identification details
- Information that may affect ongoing criminal investigations
Unauthorized disclosure of such information can compromise investigations, influence potential jurors, invade victims’ privacy, and undermine public confidence in government agencies responsible for handling forensic evidence.
Status of the Criminal Case Against D4vd
The investigation into the alleged leaks is separate from the criminal prosecution against D4vd.
Prosecutors continue to pursue murder charges while preparing evidence for trial. Court filings indicate investigators have gathered a substantial volume of digital evidence, and the case remains active before the court. Burke has denied the allegations through his not-guilty plea.
What Happens Next?
County investigators are expected to complete interviews with employees before determining whether any workplace rules were violated. Depending on the findings, possible outcomes could include disciplinary action or policy changes designed to strengthen access controls for confidential records.
Separately, the criminal case against D4vd will continue through the California court system, with prosecutors and defense attorneys preparing for future hearings.
Conclusion
The internal investigation into alleged leaks at the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner highlights the importance of safeguarding confidential forensic information during active homicide investigations. While officials work to determine whether employees improperly accessed or disclosed sensitive records, the inquiry remains separate from the ongoing murder prosecution involving D4vd. As both investigations move forward, authorities are expected to balance transparency with the need to protect victim privacy and preserve the integrity of the judicial process.
