ASAP Rocky Acquitted in 2021 Assault Trial Following Shooting Incident
The verdict is in: A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, has been found not guilty in his assault trial linked to a 2021 shooting incident. A Los Angeles jury delivered the verdict on Tuesday, February 18, after completing closing arguments just days before. The 36-year-old rapper had been facing two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic weapon.
During the trial, five witnesses testified against Rocky over the course of eight days. The case centered around allegations that Rocky fired four or five shots at his childhood friend, ASAP Relli (real name Terell Ephron), on a Hollywood street last year. The accuser, an aspiring music manager, testified for about three days, providing crucial insights into the incident.
Relli detailed how his relationship with Rocky deteriorated into a feud, eventually leading to a confrontation in Hollywood. According to Relli, Rocky fired two shots at him, resulting in a minor injury to his knuckles. Testifying on day one of the trial was Thomas Zizzo Jr., a Los Angeles police officer and the son of Erika Jayne from “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” who was among the first responders to the scene.
Throughout the trial, Rocky received unwavering support from his longtime partner, Rihanna, who attended the proceedings on multiple days. The Fenty Beauty founder, who shares two children with the rapper, did not publicly comment on the case but stood by Rocky’s side during this challenging time.
Originally pleading not guilty, Rocky faced a potential prison sentence of up to 24 years if convicted. The Harlem-born artist, known for his breakthrough album “Long. Live. ASAP,” has not only made waves in the music industry but has also cemented his status as a fashion icon. His courtroom attire even inspired a feature in the New York Times showcasing his unique style.
Looking ahead, Rocky is set to cochair the 2025 Met Gala alongside luminaries like Pharrell Williams, Colman Domingo, Anna Wintour, and Lewis Hamilton. The event will feature an exhibition titled “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” at the renowned New York museum. This year’s dress code, “Tailored for You,” reflects the focus on menswear showcased in the exhibition, promising a night of creativity and sartorial splendor.
In summary, the acquittal of A$AP Rocky in his assault trial marks a significant legal victory for the rapper. With Rihanna by his side and a high-profile role at the Met Gala on the horizon, Rocky continues to make headlines both in and out of the music world.