A$AP Rocky’s attorney clarifies Rihanna's role in the upcoming felony assault trial

A$AP Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, has shed light on the rapper’s upcoming felony assault trial and the potential involvement of his longtime partner, Rihanna. 

The 36-year-old rapper faces charges stemming from a 2022 incident in which he allegedly shot his former friend, A$AP Relli, with a semiautomatic firearm. Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, pleaded not guilty to the charges, and a judge ruled in 2023 that the case would proceed to trial.

The trial is set to begin in the coming days, marking over two years since the initial allegations surfaced. Speaking to Extra, Tacopina expressed his client’s eagerness to move forward. “It’s been a long time. It’s been over two years. Obviously, it’s been weighing over Rocky and Rihanna and their family. We’re anxious to get this thing underway and get this behind him and them,” he stated.

When asked about Rihanna’s potential involvement in the legal proceedings, Tacopina clarified that the global superstar would likely not play a role in the trial. He explained that Rocky is intent on shielding her from the situation. “Rocky’s very protective of Rihanna and doesn’t want her anywhere near this proceeding,” Tacopina shared.

The high-profile couple, who share two children, have been in the spotlight as fans speculate about the trial's impact on their family life. Despite the legal challenges, Rocky and Rihanna have largely focused on their growing family and professional endeavors.