Assault: US court says rapper A$AP Rocky not guilty

In a dramatic conclusion to one of 2025’s most-watched celebrity trials, Grammy-nominated rapper A$AP Rocky has been acquitted of all charges in a Los Angeles courtroom. The verdict marks the end of a legal battle that could have resulted in a 20-year prison sentence for the hip-hop star.

The Verdict and Its Impact

The musician, whose legal name is Rakim Mayers, faced two counts of felony assault stemming from a 2021 incident. As the jury delivered their not guilty verdict, emotional scenes unfolded in the courtroom, with Mayers embracing his supporters in visible relief.

Understanding the Case

The trial centered around allegations from former A$AP collective member Terell Ephron (known as A$AP Relli), who claimed Mayers shot at him during a confrontation in Hollywood, allegedly grazing his hand with a 9mm semi-automatic weapon. The incident, which reportedly occurred on November 6, 2021, led to Mayers’ arrest in 2022.

Defense Strategy and Key Arguments

Defense attorney Joe Tacopina presented a compelling case, arguing that the alleged weapon was merely a prop gun commonly used in music videos and films. The defense team systematically challenged the prosecution’s evidence, noting that:

• No weapon was ever recovered from the scene
• Initial police searches revealed no shell casings
• Shell casings were only “discovered” by the accuser after police had left

The Extortion Narrative

Throughout the trial, the defense maintained that the accusations were part of an elaborate extortion attempt. Tacopina characterized the case as a “mirage” designed to extract money from his successful client, describing the accuser as “a criminal and a perjurer.”

Personal Support and Presence

The trial garnered significant attention, partly due to the regular courthouse appearances of Mayers’ partner, global superstar Rihanna. The couple, who share two children, presented a united front throughout the proceedings, with Rihanna’s presence underscoring the personal stakes of the case.

Looking Forward

This verdict adds another chapter to A$AP Rocky’s legal history, following his 2019 suspended prison sentence in Sweden—an incident that drew international attention and even prompted intervention from then-President Trump.

The acquittal allows the platinum-selling artist to move forward with his career, which includes the massive success of albums “Long. Live. A$AP” and “At. Long. Last. A$AP.”

Legal Implications

The case’s conclusion may have broader implications for celebrity justice and the handling of high-profile assault cases. Tacopina’s post-verdict comments suggesting potential prosecution of the accuser hint at possible future legal developments.

For now, the verdict represents a definitive victory for Mayers and his legal team, clearing him of charges that could have dramatically altered both his personal life and professional career.