LOS ANGELES — A jury has reached a verdict in rapper A$AP Rocky’s felony assault trial after just three hours of deliberation on Tuesday.
The 36-year-old artist, legally known as Rakim Mayers, was charged with two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm in connection with a 2021 shooting involving former friend A$AP Relli.
The Los Angeles jury, composed of seven women and five men, began deliberations in the morning following three weeks of testimony and closing arguments. Their decision was finalized by mid-afternoon.
Rocky was accused of firing two shots at A$AP Relli during a confrontation on Nov. 6, 2021, in Hollywood. The defense argued that Rocky only fired blanks from a prop gun in self-defense. Each charge carries a three- to nine-year prison sentence, with a potential maximum of 24 years if a firearm sentencing enhancement is applied.
Rocky has been free on bail since his 2022 arrest. If convicted, he could be taken into custody immediately, though his legal team can petition for release before sentencing.
Prosecutors relied heavily on Relli’s testimony, surveillance footage, and text messages he sent before and after the shooting. One camera recorded the sound of gunshots, while another captured a blurry view of the altercation.
The defense presented witnesses from Rocky’s inner circle, who testified that he carried a prop gun for security. Meanwhile, Relli also filed a civil lawsuit, with text evidence suggesting he was more interested in a financial settlement than criminal prosecution.
With a verdict now reached, the case marks a pivotal moment in Rocky’s legal battle and career.
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