Los Angeles, CA — A$AP Rocky has been found not guilty on two counts of first-degree assault in connection with the alleged shooting of former friend and A$AP Mob associate, A$AP Relli, in 2021. The verdict, delivered after a three-week trial and just three hours of jury deliberation, clears the rapper of two counts of first-degree assault, charges that could have landed him up to 24 years in prison if convicted.
The case stemmed from an incident in Hollywood in November 2021, where Rocky—legal name Rakim Mayers—was accused of firing multiple shots at A$AP Relli, whose legal name is Terell Ephron. Relli, a former associate and friend of Rocky, testified that the shooting occurred after an argument outside a hotel, claiming that his knuckles were grazed by a bullet during the altercation.
However, Rocky’s defense team, led by attorney Joe Tacopina, argued that the rapper was carrying only a prop gun at the time, which he had picked up from a music video set. The defense maintained that the weapon fired blanks, making it impossible for Relli to have been injured by live ammunition.
Despite the serious charges, Rocky chose not to take the stand during the trial. His defense team maintained that the prosecution failed to provide clear evidence that the rapper had actually shot Relli.
ASAP Rocky’s reaction after finding out he’s Not Guilty pic.twitter.com/QGgopcS6CD
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Following the verdict, Rocky expressed his gratitude, saying, “You gotta thank God first. I really wanna thank the jury for making the right decision.”
A$AP Rocky speaks following his not guilty verdict 🙏
— Kurrco (@Kurrco) February 19, 2025
"You gotta thank God first. I really wanna thank the jury for making the right decision." pic.twitter.com/Rzkciz0QvU
His partner, Rihanna, also celebrated the verdict on social media, writing, “THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD AND GOD ALONE. THANKFUL, HUMBLED BY HIS MERCY!”
Rocky’s legal troubles began in 2022 when he was arrested and charged for allegedly shooting Relli in Hollywood the year prior. m He had previously turned down a plea deal offered by prosecutors last month, opting instead to take his chances at trial. The not-guilty verdict marks a significant victory for the rapper, who has maintained his innocence throughout the ordeal.
With the trial now behind him, Rocky can focus on the release of his long-awaited album “Don’t Be Dumb.”
DON’T BE DUMB
— LORD FLACKO JODYE II (@asvpxrocky) February 19, 2025
His legal team has also hinted that he may consider civil action against those who accused him, though no official statements have been made regarding next steps.