Rapper A$AP Rocky has been found not guilty in his highly publicized assault trial, where he faced two felony charges for allegedly firing a gun at a former friend in 2021. The A$AP Rocky assault trial reached a dramatic conclusion as the jury deliberated for just three hours before delivering the verdict. The moment the clerk announced his acquittal, Rocky—real name Rakim Mayers—leaped from the defense table straight into the arms of his longtime partner, global superstar Rihanna. The courtroom, packed with supporters, erupted in cheers as the emotional couple embraced.
For Rocky, the verdict marked the end of a grueling four-year legal battle that could have cost him up to 24 years in prison. In contrast, Rihanna, who had been a steady presence throughout the trial, wasted no time expressing her gratitude. Shortly after the decision, she posted a message on her Instagram Story: “The glory belongs to God and God alone! Thankful, humbled by His mercy!” The verdict not only ensures Rocky’s freedom but also allows him to continue his thriving career without the weight of potential incarceration looming over him.
A$AP Rocky Turns Down Plea Deal, Takes a Gamble on Jury Trial
Rihanna celebrates A$AP Rocky being found not guilty for assault:
“THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD AND GOD ALONE! THANKFUL, HUMBLED BY HIS MERCY! 🙏🏿” pic.twitter.com/JgYIsEmdU0
— Pop Base (@PopBase) February 19, 2025
On the eve of the trial, prosecutors had offered Rocky a plea deal—six months in jail, probation, and other conditions—in exchange for pleading guilty to one count of assault. However, the rapper insisted on his innocence and chose to take his chances with the jury. It was a risky move that ultimately paid off. His legal team argued that the allegations were based on inconsistent testimonies from the alleged victim, Terell Ephron, better known as A$AP Relli.
Throughout the A$AP Rocky assault trial, the defense presented evidence suggesting that Rocky had fired a prop gun, not a real firearm, and only did so as a warning in self-defense. The jury, after weighing the evidence, found at least a reasonable doubt of his guilt. As the verdict was announced, Rocky expressed his gratitude, telling the jury, “Thank y’all for saving my life.”
Jury Reaches a Verdict in Just Three Hours
NOT GUILTY
A$AP ROCKY HAS BEAT HIS CASE AFTER THE JURY FINDS HIM NOT GUILTY ON ALL CHARGES
THE COURTROOM ERUPTED INTO CELEBRATION AS A$AP ROCKY JUMPS INTO THE THE GALLERY TO HUG RIHANNA pic.twitter.com/QrLqueSsCP
— THUGGERDAILY ひ (@ThuggerDaily) February 19, 2025
Despite a trial that lasted three weeks, the jury needed only a few hours to reach their decision. Their swift deliberation suggested that they were unconvinced by the prosecution’s case. Rocky’s defense team, led by attorney Joe Tacopina, emphasized that the prosecution’s key witness, A$AP Relli, had provided contradictory statements throughout the case.
Tacopina further argued that Relli had fabricated his version of events, labeling him “an angry pathological liar.” The defense maintained that Rocky had been carrying a prop gun he had taken from a music video set and used it only as a warning after Relli allegedly attacked another member of their crew.
Rihanna Stood by Rocky Throughout the Trial
Rihanna remained a constant source of support for Rocky, attending several court sessions, sometimes alongside their two young sons—RZA and Riot Rose. She was present during closing arguments and stood by his side as they exited the courthouse after the verdict.
After the jury’s decision, Rocky and Rihanna embraced, both visibly emotional. The rapper’s legal team later revealed that Rocky had initially discouraged Rihanna from attending the trial because he wanted to shield her from the stress. However, she refused to stay away, determined to support him throughout the process.
Rocky Faced Up to 24 Years in Prison
Had the jury ruled against Rocky, he could have faced a sentence of more than two decades behind bars. Instead, the A$AP Rocky not guilty verdict has given him the chance to move forward without the shadow of imprisonment hanging over his future.
Outside the courthouse, Rocky addressed reporters, reflecting on the toll of the past four years. “This whole experience has been crazy, but I’m thankful, nonetheless. Blessed to be here right now, to be a free man talking to y’all. Thank you. All praise to God.”
The Case Stemmed from a Dispute with a Former Friend
Prosecutors claimed that Rocky had a long-standing feud with A$AP Relli, a former member of the A$AP Mob. The alleged incident occurred in November 2021, when Relli claimed Rocky fired at him twice during a confrontation in Hollywood. One of the bullets allegedly grazed his knuckle, though he was not seriously injured.
Rocky’s legal team countered these claims, stating that there was no forensic evidence proving he fired a live weapon. They argued that Relli had a financial motive for pressing charges and that his testimony was riddled with inconsistencies.
A$AP Rocky’s Career Moves Forward
With the trial now behind him, Rocky can fully focus on his music and business ventures. The A$AP Rocky assault trial had cast a shadow over his career, but now, he has several major projects lined up.
He is set to headline the Rolling Loud music festival in March, an event that will mark his return to the stage following the legal ordeal. Additionally, he will serve as one of the celebrity co-chairs at the prestigious Met Gala in May. Later in the year, he is set to star alongside Denzel Washington in Spike Lee’s upcoming film, “Highest 2 Lowest,” which is scheduled for release in early summer.
A Happy Ending
The A$AP Rocky not guilty verdict is a significant moment for both the rapper and his supporters. While the prosecution attempted to frame him as guilty, the jury saw reasonable doubt and ruled in his favor. Now, with Rihanna by his side and his career on an upward trajectory, Rocky can finally move forward, leaving the legal battle behind.
Featured image: Samir Hussein/Getty Images
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