Rocky’s Trial Set to Begin for Alleged Shooting a Former Friend
Jury selection begins Tuesday in the trial of Grammy-nominated rapper A$AP Rocky, who faces two felony charges for allegedly firing a gun at a former friend in Hollywood in 2021. If convicted, the 36-year-old could face up to 24 years in prison.
Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, has pleaded not guilty to assault with a semiautomatic firearm. His attorney insists that the rapper committed no crime. The trial’s outcome could significantly impact his life, as Rocky is not only a celebrated artist but also a fashion mogul and actor. He is the longtime partner of Rihanna, with whom he shares two toddler sons.
The case stems from accusations by Terell Ephron, a childhood friend of Rocky, who claims their relationship soured and culminated in the November 6, 2021, shooting. Ephron testified that the bullets grazed his knuckles during the incident.
Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Mark Arnold has emphasized that the trial will be impartial regardless of Rocky’s celebrity status. “Everybody is to be treated the same,” he stated at a pretrial hearing. The judge aims to seat a jury quickly, with opening statements expected as early as Wednesday.
The trial comes at a pivotal moment in Rocky’s career, as he is slated to co-chair the Met Gala in May and star in a Spike Lee-directed film with Denzel Washington later this year.
Media cameras will be permitted in court throughout the trial, offering public access to this high-profile legal battle.