Additional Coverage:
- A$AP Rocky found not guilty: ‘Thank y’all for saving my life’ (abcnews.go.com)
Los Angeles – Rapper A$AP Rocky was acquitted Tuesday of felony assault charges. The charges stemmed from a 2021 Hollywood incident where he was accused of shooting at former friend and musical collaborator A$AP Relli, whose real name is Terrell Ephron.
The courtroom erupted in cheers as the verdict was read. Rocky embraced family, including his partner, pop star Rihanna, who was present throughout the proceedings.
He thanked the jury, saying, “Thank y’all for saving my life. Thank you.
Thank y’all. You’re making the right decision.”
Mayers was charged in August 2022 with two counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm. Prosecutors alleged he fired at Ephron during an altercation.
The jury of seven women and five men deliberated Tuesday morning. Mayers had pleaded not guilty and faced a potential 24-year prison sentence.
Both Mayers and Ephron grew up together and were members of the Harlem-based rap group A$AP Mob.
The trial, which began with jury selection on January 21, featured testimony from Ephron. He claimed Mayers shot at him, grazing his hand. Mayers did not testify.
The alleged weapon, never recovered, was central to the case. The prosecution argued it was a real firearm, while the defense insisted it was a prop gun carried by Mayers for security.
Before jury selection, Mayers rejected a plea deal from prosecutors that included a 180-day jail sentence. His attorney, Joe Tacopina, stated that Mayers maintained his innocence.
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- A$AP Rocky found not guilty: ‘Thank y’all for saving my life’ (abcnews.go.com)