What does having the key to the city mean? Mayor withdraws Lil Durk's special privilege in wake of his arrest over murder for hire

Lil Durk was taken into custody on Friday, October 25, after being involved in a murder-for-hire plot. While he is being held by the US Marshals Service, investigators believe that he was associated with the murder attempt on Quando Rondo in 2022, which led to the death of Rondo's cousin, Lul Pab.

As per the latest update, the rapper's key to the Illinois city of Village of Broadview has been taken away after his arrest. The news comes only a week after he received the key at a ceremony on October 18, 2024, from Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson and Bellwood Mayor Andre Harvey.

The meaning of having a key to the city is different for every location. However, it is usually considered to be a sign of recognition, honor, and trust. The concept originated in ancient times when a ceremonial key was given to visitors in various cities.

Notably, the key does not have the power to unlock something. It is considered to be a symbol of the individual's special status and contributions to the community.

Meanwhile, a statement was also shared through Thompson's official Facebook page on the day of Lil Durk's arrest. The post included a link to a news piece published by CBS News, which featured details related to the artist's legal issue. The announcement stated:

"While the American system of justice grants everyone the presumption of innocence until proven guilty in a court of law, in the Village of Broadview, the court of public opinion of residents has even higher moral and ethical standards of behavior. And our public partners must also reflect the same uncompromising standards demanded by our residents."

The statement mentioned that the Village of Broadview is "withdrawing" its key to the village and "terminating" the partnership with Lil Durk's organization Neighborhood Heroes Foundation. The statement reads towards the end:

"As mayor, protecting Broadview's interests and upholding the values of residents is job number one."

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Lil Durk's rap collective members accused of being involved in the 2022 shooting incident

A day before Durk's arrest, five people, namely Kavon London Grant, Deandre Dontrell Wilson, Keith Jones, David Brian Lindsey, and Asa Houston, were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in Rondo's case, as per XXL Magazine.

The accused were reportedly the members of Durk's rap collective OTF and were charged with conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, committing murder-for-hire involving a death, and use of a machine gun in a violent crime leading to death.

According to Deadline, U.S. District Attorney Martin Estrada said in a statement that Durk reportedly made a plan to murder Quando Rondo after they had a dispute.

The accused traveled to California a day before the incident and Lil Durk reportedly later arrived at the place on a private jet.

Estrada also claimed that around 18 rounds were fired in the shooting incident and the entire group used two vehicles to track Rondo. He further stated:

"The shooting occurred in the open, at a gas station at a busy intersection, endangering many others in the area. Violent gun crime of this sort is devastating to our community and we will have zero-tolerance for those who perpetrate such callous acts of violence."

Lil Durk's representatives have not made any comment about the ongoing legal issue.