A$AP Rocky Found Not Guilty in Hollywood Shooting Case

A$AP Rocky walked free Tuesday after a Los Angeles jury found him not guilty of firing a handgun at former friend A$AP Relli. The verdict cleared him of two felony assault charges, avoiding a potential 24-year prison sentence. Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, thanked jurors as they exited, relieved his gamble on a trial paid off. He had rejected a plea deal offering just six months in jail.

After the verdict, Rocky embraced Rihanna, who tearfully hugged his defense team in celebration. Rihanna sporadically attended the trial, sometimes bringing their sons, RZA and Riot. The trial’s outcome removes a legal cloud over Rocky’s busy year ahead. He’s set to headline Rolling Loud, co-chair the Met Gala, and star in Spike Lee’s film.

Prosecutors alleged Rocky shot at Relli in Hollywood after a heated argument in November 2021. Relli claimed one bullet grazed his knuckle, though he was not seriously injured. The prosecution painted Relli as a betrayed friend targeted by the rapper. But Rocky’s defense insisted he fired a prop gun with blanks to defuse the situation.

The jury’s reasoning remains unclear, whether they believed Rocky had a fake gun or acted in self-defense. His lawyers argued Relli lied repeatedly and had a personal vendetta. The case’s lack of physical evidence also raised doubt. Ultimately, the jurors found there wasn’t enough proof to convict the rapper.

During closing arguments, prosecutors warned jurors not to be swayed by Rocky’s fame or Rihanna’s presence. Deputy District Attorney John Lewin suggested Rihanna’s courtroom appearances were strategic. “We are all responsible for our own actions,” he told the jury. But in the end, they ruled in Rocky’s favor, clearing his path for the future.