Rapper A$AP Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, has been acquitted of all felony assault charges in a trial that could have jeopardized his career. If convicted, he faced up to 24 years in prison.
Trial Overview
The trial, which began on January 24 in Los Angeles, centered on allegations that A$AP Rocky pulled a gun and fired multiple shots at his former friend, Terell Ephron, also known as A$AP Relli.
Prosecutors claimed that a dispute between the two escalated into violence outside a Hollywood hotel in November 2021, with Ephron alleging that a bullet grazed his knuckles.
Surveillance footage with audio of gunfire was presented in court, though no direct video evidence of the shooting exists. Ephron, the prosecution’s star witness, detailed his fallout with A$AP Rocky and the events leading up to the alleged incident.
Defense Claims Extortion
A$AP Rocky’s legal team, led by attorney Joe Tacopina, denied the allegations, calling the case “extortion, plain and simple.” They argued that the weapon in question was a prop gun and that Ephron only reported the incident days later as part of a financial scheme against the rapper.
The defense also highlighted inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case, including the absence of bullet casings at the scene and Ephron’s delay in seeking medical attention.
Key Courtroom Moments
The trial was marked by intense exchanges, including a heated moment when Ephron was reprimanded by the judge for calling the defense attorney “annoying.” A$AP Rocky also made headlines when he interrupted proceedings, instructing a witness not to disclose certain details about “AWGE,” his creative brand.
Despite speculation that he might take the stand, A$AP Rocky ultimately declined to testify, avoiding cross-examination by prosecutors.
Verdict and Rihanna’s Support
With closing arguments delivered, the jury deliberated before reaching a final verdict: A$AP Rocky was cleared of all charges and will not face prison time.
Throughout the trial, his partner, pop icon Rihanna, was a constant presence in the courtroom, sitting alongside his mother and sister. Her unwavering support drew media attention, with many speculating on whether her presence influenced public perception of the case.
As the trial concludes, the rapper will release his first solo album in nearly a decade and he will also co-headline Los Angeles’ Rolling Loud festival in March 2025.
Additionally, he stars alongside Denzel Washington in Spike Lee’s upcoming film Highest 2 Lowest, due to be released in the coming months.