Rapper A$AP Rocky Cleared of Felony Assault Charges in Los Angeles Court
Rapper A$AP Rocky Cleared of Felony Assault Charges in Los Angeles Court
In a dramatic courtroom verdict on Tuesday, February 19, 2025, rapper A$AP Rocky was acquitted of two felony assault charges, bringing an end to a high-profile trial that had captivated fans and media alike. The Grammy-nominated artist, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, faced the possibility of over 20 years in prison if convicted.
The case stemmed from an alleged altercation with his former friend and fellow AAPMobmember,TerellEphron,alsoknownasAAP Relli. The incident reportedly occurred in a Hollywood parking garage on November 6, 2021. Ephron claimed that Mayers had lured him to the location, where a heated argument escalated into violence.
Ephron testified that Mayers had brandished a semi-automatic weapon, pointed it at his stomach, and threatened, “I’ll kill you right now.” He alleged that two shots were fired, with one bullet grazing his knuckles. However, Mayers’ defense team argued that the weapon in question was nothing more than a prop gun used in movies and music videos.
Defense attorney Joe Tacopina painted Ephron as an unreliable witness, accusing him of fabricating the story to extort money from his wealthy and famous client. Tacopina emphasized that no weapon or shell casings were found during an extensive police search of the scene. He also questioned the credibility of Ephron’s claim that he discovered the casings hours after the police had left.
The jury ultimately sided with Mayers, delivering a unanimous “not guilty” verdict on both counts of felony assault. The rapper, visibly relieved, embraced his legal team and supporters as the verdict was announced. Outside the courtroom, Tacopina praised the jury for seeing through what he called a “mirage of a case” and suggested that Ephron should face charges for attempting to extort his client.
Mayers, 36, is best known for his critically acclaimed albums Long. Live. AAP and At.Long.Last.AAP, which catapulted him to global fame. He is also the partner of pop icon Rihanna, with whom he shares two children. Rihanna was frequently seen in court during the trial, showing her support for Mayers.
This case marks another chapter in Mayers’ legal history. In 2019, he was involved in a highly publicized assault case in Sweden, which led to diplomatic tensions between the Swedish government and the United States. Former President Donald Trump even intervened, advocating for Mayers’ release.
The acquittal has been celebrated by fans and supporters, who view it as a vindication for the rapper. Meanwhile, the outcome raises questions about the credibility of the allegations and the role of fame and wealth in high-stakes legal battles.
As the dust settles, A$AP Rocky can now focus on his music and family, leaving this legal ordeal behind him
