A$AP Rocky trial set to begin on charges he fired a gun at a former friend
3 min read
Source: WWD / Getty
Jury selection is set to begin on Tuesday for A$AP Rocky, who faces charges of firing a gun at his former friend and could face up to 24 years in prison if convicted. The 36-year-old rapper and actor has pleaded not guilty to two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. His legal team maintains that he did not commit any crime.
A$AP Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, is a Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist, fashion mogul, and actor. He is also the longtime partner of global pop star Rihanna, and they share two young sons. Although it’s uncertain if Rihanna will attend the trial to offer support, Rocky’s attorney has suggested her presence is unlikely.
The trial stems from an incident that occurred in Hollywood in November 2021. Rocky is accused of firing a gun at Terell Ephron, a childhood friend who claims their relationship deteriorated before the alleged shooting. Ephron testified at a preliminary hearing that he was grazed by bullets during the altercation.
Superior Court Judge Mark Arnold, who is presiding over the case, has emphasized the need for a fair trial and stated that everyone, regardless of their wealth or status, will be treated equally. He has also indicated that jury selection should proceed quickly and has imposed time restrictions on questioning potential jurors.
If convicted, A$AP Rocky could face a lengthy prison sentence. Prosecutors have charged him with two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. The charges stem from an argument that escalated between Rocky and Ephron, which allegedly culminated in Rocky firing a gun during the confrontation. The details surrounding the incident remain central to the trial, as both sides will likely present different accounts of what transpired.
Opening statements for the trial are expected to begin as early as Wednesday, once a jury has been selected. In a move that could attract significant media attention, Judge Arnold has allowed cameras in the courtroom for the entire trial.
In 2023, a judge ruled that there was enough evidence to proceed to trial after a preliminary hearing. During that hearing, Ephron testified about the deterioration of his relationship with Rocky, leading up to the November 6, 2021, confrontation. Ephron claimed that bullets grazed his knuckles during the alleged shooting, which has become a key point of contention in the case.
Despite the legal challenges he is facing, A$AP Rocky’s career continues to thrive. He was recently named one of the celebrity chairs for the prestigious Met Gala in May, a major event in the fashion world. Additionally, Rocky is set to star in an upcoming film directed by Spike Lee, alongside Hollywood veteran Denzel Washington, which is scheduled to be released soon after the trial.
While A$AP Rocky’s career remains on track, the trial presents a significant challenge to his personal and professional life. If found guilty, the consequences could be severe, potentially derailing his future projects and public image. The case has garnered widespread attention, not just due to the seriousness of the charges, but also because of Rocky’s high-profile status in the entertainment industry.
As the trial unfolds, all eyes will be on the courtroom to see how the legal process plays out for the rapper-turned-actor. With his career on the line and a possible lengthy prison sentence at stake, A$AP Rocky’s legal battle will undoubtedly remain a topic of public interest in the weeks ahead.
About The Author
