The highly anticipated trial of A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, is officially underway in Los Angeles. The Harlem-born rapper, designer, and actor faces two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, stemming from a November 2021 altercation with former friend and A$AP Mob member Terell Ephron, aka A$AP Relli.
The Allegations
According to Ephron, he and Mayers were once close friends, but their relationship fractured as Rocky’s star power grew. In November 2021, Ephron claims he met with Mayers outside the W Hotel in Hollywood to resolve their differences. Ephron testified that Mayers showed up with two men and, during their exchange, pulled a gun from his waistband and fired multiple shots, grazing Ephron’s hand.
Ephron alleges that he later returned to the scene to collect bullet casings, which he used to confront Mayers in a video message. Rocky reportedly responded by calling Ephron’s claims fabricated and daring him to involve the police. Ephron eventually filed a police report, leading to Rocky’s April 2022 arrest upon returning to the U.S. from a vacation in Barbados with Rihanna, his partner and the mother of his two children.
Rocky’s Defense
Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, plans to argue that the firearm captured in security footage was a harmless “starter pistol” used for security purposes. Tacopina has also suggested that Ephron fabricated the incident in pursuit of a financial settlement, citing a 2022 civil suit Ephron filed against the rapper.
Tacopina has emphasized Rocky’s eagerness to face the charges and put the case behind him, describing him as “ready to go” to trial. While Rocky may testify, Tacopina says the decision will depend on how the case unfolds.
What’s at Stake
If convicted, Rocky could face up to 24 years in prison. The trial is expected to last approximately three weeks, with jury selection and opening statements set to begin this week. Cameras will be allowed in the courtroom, giving the public a front-row seat to the proceedings.
Will Rihanna Be in Court?
Speculation about Rihanna’s attendance has been swirling. During an October hearing, the judge welcomed her presence but sought clarification on her relationship with Rocky, referring to her as his “significant other.” While Tacopina stated that Rocky prefers to keep Rihanna away from the trial, it remains a family decision.
So far, Rihanna has not attended any related hearings, and it’s unclear if she will appear during the trial.
Rocky’s Legal History
This isn’t Rocky’s first brush with the law. He was previously arrested at age 16 on attempted murder charges, though they were later reduced. In 2019, Rocky made international headlines after being detained for assault in Sweden following a street altercation. He was found guilty but avoided additional jail time.
What’s Next for A$AP Rocky?
Despite the trial, Rocky shows no signs of slowing down professionally. He’s slated to headline Rolling Loud California in March, co-chair the 2025 Met Gala in May, and release his fourth studio album, Don’t Be Dumb, later this year. He’s also up for a Grammy on February 2 and has a role in Spike Lee’s upcoming film, Highest 2 Lowest, starring Denzel Washington.
As the trial unfolds, fans and critics alike will be watching closely to see how it impacts the rapper’s future. Stay tuned to NStyleAtlanta.com for updates on the case and all things A$AP Rocky.
