Rapper ASAP Rocky has been cleared of all charges following a dramatic three-week trial which had the world on the edge of their seats. He stood accused of shooting a gun at his one-time friend, A$AP Relli (Terell Ephron), in a 2021 shooting outside the W Hotel in Los Angeles. The jury deliberated for more than three hours before returning a verdict of not guilty on the charge of assault with a semiautomatic firearm.
The case gained much media attention since both the prosecution and defense had opposing accounts. A$AP Relli alleged Rocky fired at him, whereas Rocky asserted he never fired an actual gun, stating he had a prop gun for security purposes. The police could not find any immediate evidence of shots fired at the scene, but Relli later found two bullet casings, which Rocky’s lawyers asserted were planted after the fact.
If found guilty, Rocky might have been sentenced to 24 years in prison, a prospect that hung over his head during the trial. He turned down a plea bargain of six months in jail just days before the verdict, opting instead to battle for outright acquittal. His lawyers fought hard to establish his innocence, and ultimately, the jury acquitted him.
Rihanna’s Emotional Response
The moment the verdict was read, Rihanna collapsed in sobs, overcome with relief. She has stood by Rocky’s side through the entire trial, sitting through several hearings despite the emotional cost. Afterwards, she posted on Instagram, writing: “The glory belongs to God. Thankful, humbled by His mercy.”
Rihanna and Rocky started dating in 2020 and have two sons, RZA Athelston and Riot Rose. Rihanna’s love and devotion to Rocky were seen throughout the case, with her often going to court with him. The prosecution alleged that taking their kids to court was a stunt to sympathize, but Rihanna remained firm, making sure she was there for her partner.
Following the not guilty acquittal, A$AP Rocky bounced over the stand in the courtroom to hug Rihanna, his mother, and his sister. His lawyer explained later that Rocky had previously not wished for Rihanna to undergo the ordeal of trial, but Rihanna had insisted she was not keeping her distance. Her unyielding support and attendance demonstrated clearly just how resilient their relationship is.
What’s Next for A$AP Rocky?
With this legal ordeal behind him, A$AP Rocky is set to move on and concentrate on his career. The rapper is preparing to have an amazing year, with big things on the horizon. He will be performing at the Rolling Loud festival in March, where the crowd is looking forward to his show. He will also be co-chairing the Met Gala in May, with Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, and Pharrell Williams.
Aside from music and fashion, A$AP Rocky is trying his hand at acting. He will be sharing the screen with Denzel Washington in a new film, Highest to Lowest, scheduled to release this summer. This is a new direction for him, showing that through all the struggles, he is coming back stronger than ever.
His lawyers underscored that this trial had been a life-changing experience for him. The rapper, who has never been short of confidence, stood to lose everything. In the aftermath of the verdict, he thanked the jury, stating, “Thank you all for saving my life.”
Fans all over the world are rejoicing in his triumph, and social media has been filled with words of encouragement. People feel that justice has been served and A$AP Rocky can now concentrate on his music, his family, and his future.
