A$AP Rocky was acquitted on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in a felony assault trial in which he was accused of firing a semi-automatic handgun at his former friend and A$AP Mob member, A$AP Relli, during an altercation in November 2021. After more than eight hours of deliberation, the jury found the rapper not guilty of the two felony charges related to the alleged shooting.
The verdict was delivered at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center in Los Angeles. Following the announcement, Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, immediately embraced his mother, sister, and partner, pop star Rihanna, who appeared emotional as the decision was read. Rocky thanked the jury, saying, “Thank you for saving my life.”
The judge also expressed gratitude to the jury for their time, emphasizing the importance of jury trials in the justice system.
The Trial and Defense Claims
The case revolved around a violent encounter between Rocky and Relli that allegedly occurred in Hollywood, California, on November 6, 2021. Prosecutors claimed Rocky shot at Relli, who suffered injuries from the incident. Rocky faced two charges of felony assault with a semiautomatic firearm, each carrying a potential sentence of up to 24 years in prison.
Rocky’s defense, led by attorney Joe Tacopina, rejected the allegations, asserting that the gun involved in the altercation was a “prop gun” intended for self-defense in the case of potential threats. Tacopina also suggested that Relli fabricated the story in an effort to profit from the situation. “For Relli, it was never about justice… it’s about a man seeking a profit from a fabricated narrative,” Tacopina said during the trial.
On the other hand, the prosecution argued that Relli was simply trying to resolve his issues with Rocky after the two had a falling out. District Attorney John Lewin urged the jury not to be swayed by Rocky’s celebrity status, telling them that despite his fame and the presence of Rihanna and their children in the courtroom, they must treat Rocky like any other defendant. “He needs to be treated like any other person. Because in the end, that’s what he’s entitled to,” Lewin said during his closing arguments.
The Events of November 2021
According to testimony from both sides, the altercation began when Relli confronted Rocky over a disagreement, which had been simmering for some time. Relli testified that he had overheard Rocky badmouthing him on a phone call, leading to their falling out. Relli claimed he spotted Rocky outside a parking garage on Hollywood Boulevard, where an argument escalated into violence. Surveillance footage shown in court appeared to show Rocky walking toward Relli and shoving him.
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Relli claimed that during the altercation, Rocky fired several shots at him, hitting him with bullet fragments. He testified that he used one of Rocky’s associates as a human shield during the confrontation. However, the prosecution’s case was weakened by inconsistencies in Relli’s story and the lack of physical evidence. The gun allegedly used in the shooting was never recovered, and shell casings found at the scene did not contain any fingerprints.
Rihanna’s Support and Emotional Reactions
Rihanna, who has attended several days of the trial in support of her partner, was present during the verdict. As a visible figure in the courtroom, her presence was noted by both the defense and prosecution, with Lewin requesting the jury not to be influenced by her or their children’s appearances. Throughout the trial, Rihanna remained by Rocky’s side, often appearing emotional as she witnessed the proceedings.
Previous Legal Issues and Civil Lawsuit
Before the criminal trial, Relli filed a civil lawsuit against Rocky in August 2022, claiming assault, battery, and emotional distress. In his lawsuit, Relli alleged that the altercation caused him significant physical and emotional harm. He also claimed that he was struck by bullet fragments during the incident and sought medical treatment for his injuries. However, Rocky’s attorneys denied these allegations, asserting that the injuries were minimal and that Relli’s claims were unfounded.
In a related development, new evidence was presented during the trial, including surveillance footage and testimonies from law enforcement. Detective Frank Flores testified in November 2023 that the footage seemed to show Rocky holding a gun during the confrontation. However, under cross-examination, he admitted that no gun was recovered from the scene.
Aftermath and Public Response
Rocky, who had been arrested in April 2022 at Los Angeles International Airport in connection with the incident, was released on bail the same day. He had maintained his innocence throughout the legal process, and his legal team had insisted that he was not responsible for the alleged shooting.
Following the verdict, the rapper expressed relief and gratitude for the support from his family, including Rihanna, who had been a constant presence in court. The acquittal also ends a tumultuous legal battle for the artist, who has faced significant public and legal scrutiny over the past few years.
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The case, which had garnered media attention due to the involvement of high-profile individuals like Rihanna and the A$AP Mob, is now closed, with the rapper cleared of all charges.
The legal team for A$AP Rocky did not immediately respond to requests for comment following the verdict.
