A$AP Rocky Acquitted in Shooting Trial: Key Takeaways and Insights You Need to Know

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A$AP Rocky is a free man after a jury found him not guilty of assault on Tuesday. This case has loomed over the hip-hop artist for years and could have changed his life dramatically.

Rocky faced two serious felony charges after an incident in November 2021, where a former friend claimed the rapper shot at him in Hollywood, narrowly missing his knuckles. Although he was out on bail since his 2022 arrest, a conviction could have meant immediate jail time. Rocky chose to plead not guilty and rejected a plea deal that would have led to minimal punishment. He did not testify during the trial.

When the verdict was announced, Rocky, clearly relieved, jumped into the arms of his partner, Rihanna. He thanked the jury, saying, “Thank y’all for saving my life.”

The jury, which included seven women and five men, deliberated for about three hours. They decided that Rocky was not guilty, possibly believing he only fired blanks from a prop gun or acted in self-defense. There was also the possibility that the prosecution failed to provide enough evidence to convict him.

The main testimony against him came from A$AP Relli, the alleged victim. Surveillance footage captured the sound of gunfire, along with a blurry video of the incident. However, Relli’s credibility was questioned when he communicated he might not pursue charges if paid, leading Rocky’s lawyer to label him a liar.

Rocky faced serious consequences if he had been convicted, with a potential sentence of up to 24 years in prison. For Rocky, who shares two young children with Rihanna, a conviction would have had a profound impact, especially with a busy schedule ahead.

Looking forward, A$AP Rocky has an exciting year ahead. He’ll headline the Rolling Loud music festival in Los Angeles in March, co-chair the Met Gala in May, and star alongside Denzel Washington in Spike Lee’s upcoming film, “Highest 2 Lowest.”

Throughout the trial, Rihanna’s presence drew interest. Initially, it was unclear if she would attend. As the trial progressed, she was often seen in the courtroom, even surprising many when she brought their young sons to watch the closing arguments. After the verdict, she embraced Rocky and they left together, surrounded by photographers.

The case traces back to Rocky’s high school days when he met Relli. Their friendship soured after Rocky rose to fame, culminating in the November 2021 incident. Relli claimed Rocky fired several shots at him. Rocky’s lawyers pointed to recordings where Relli allegedly indicated a willingness to drop the charges for money, although Relli denied this was true.

Judge Mark Arnold oversaw the trial, maintaining a balance between authority and accessibility by allowing cameras in the courtroom. He commended both legal teams for their efforts, noting, “They gave 150%.” The dynamic between the prosecuting and defense attorneys was intense, with moments of heated exchanges that led the judge to intervene at times.