Attorney Drew Findling used a public appearance at the 2026 Summer Smash music festival in Chicago to defend rapper Lil Durk and say police tell him “Free Durk,” as he expressed confidence in the artist’s ability to overcome federal murder-for-hire charges.
During an interview with journalist Dometi Pongo on June 14, Findling highlighted what he described as broad community support for the Chicago rapper, whose legal battle remains pending in federal court.
“I have people come to me off the streets, going ‘Free Durk, Free Durk,’” Findling said. “I have law enforcement officers walking up to me saying ‘Free Durk.’”
The remarks appeared aimed at underscoring Durk’s standing in his hometown and beyond. Findling characterized the rapper as a self-made success story who built a career from Chicago’s South Side and later earned Grammy recognition.
“Durk comes from Chicago. He’s self made. He was a Grammy Award winner,” Findling said. “He was deeply involved in the community service, right here in his city.”
The veteran defense attorney also pointed to support from local elected officials and community members, arguing that federal prosecutors brought charges against an individual who had established a positive reputation through philanthropy and civic engagement.
Lil Durk’s Attorney, Drew Findling, Claims Police Officers Approach Him, Saying “Free Durk”
“He had local politicians supporting him. He had people in the community supporting him,” Findling said.
Findling further suggested that the defense team has achieved favorable results throughout the litigation, stating, “We have been defeating them on so many legal issues.”
While he did not identify specific rulings, the comment appeared to reference ongoing disputes over evidence, procedure, and pretrial matters.
Pongo asked about the likelihood that Durk beats the case, Findling declined to discuss legal odds. Instead, he emphasized his commitment to defending clients and expressed unwavering confidence in the outcome.
“Everybody that’s known me for years and years and years knows I’m 24/7,” Findling said. “You call me 3 in the morning, I’m at the police station.”
He concluded with a direct assessment of the defense’s position.
“I’m in it to win it, and we’re gonna win it,” Findling said.
The federal charges against Lil Durk are pending. The trial begins late 2026.
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