*A$AP Rocky, the Grammy-nominated rapper and fashion icon, has been found not guilty on two counts of assault with a semiautomatic weapon following a high-profile trial in Los Angeles. The verdict, delivered by a jury of seven women and five men, brings an end to a legal battle that could have seen Rocky—whose legal name is Rakim Mayers—facing up to 24 years in prison if convicted.
The rapper’s partner, global superstar Rihanna, was visibly emotional as the verdict was read, sobbing and embracing Rocky’s defense attorney, Joe Tacopina. As the jurors exited the courtroom, Rocky expressed his gratitude, telling them, “Thank you for saving my life.”
The Case and Closing Arguments
The charges stemmed from a 2021 incident outside a Hollywood hotel, where Rocky was accused of firing a gun at his former friend and associate, A$AP Relli (legal name Terell Ephron). Relli claimed he suffered scraped knuckles from a bullet during the altercation. However, Rocky’s defense team argued that the rapper was carrying only a prop gun at the time and could not have shot Relli.
Rocky turned down a plea deal from prosecutors last month, opting instead to take his chances at trial. During closing arguments, Tacopina emphasized the lack of concrete evidence linking Rocky to the shooting, while Relli’s testimony was marked by heated exchanges with the defense attorney.
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Rihanna’s Support and Trial Drama
Rihanna, who shares two sons with Rocky, played a supportive role throughout the trial. She attended multiple days of proceedings, sitting alongside Rocky’s mother and sister in the courtroom gallery. On one occasion, she even brought the couple’s children to court.
The trial also saw moments of tension, including when Rocky shouted at his friend A$AP Twelvyy during testimony, urging him not to reveal details about their creative agency, AWGE, which operates under strict secrecy rules.
Jury Selection and Verdict
The jury, composed of seven women and five men—none of whom were Black—began deliberations Tuesday morning after closing arguments concluded Friday afternoon.
Prospective jurors had been questioned about their familiarity with Rocky and Rihanna, including whether they had listened to their music or downloaded their songs.
In the end, the jury sided with Rocky, delivering a verdict that allows the rapper to avoid a potential 24-year prison sentence. The acquittal marks a significant victory for Rocky, who has maintained his innocence throughout the legal ordeal.
What’s Next for Rocky?
With the trial behind him, Rocky can now focus on his music, fashion ventures, and family life with Rihanna and their two sons. The verdict not only clears his name but also allows him to move forward without the shadow of a lengthy prison sentence looming over his career.
For now, Rocky and Rihanna can breathe a sigh of relief as they put this chapter behind them.
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