Rihanna has finally spoken out after her boyfriend, A$AP Rocky, was found not guilty in his felony shooting trial. The singer, 36, took to Instagram Stories on Tuesday night to share her emotions. She expressed her gratitude and faith in a heartfelt message that quickly gained attention.
Rihanna’s emotional post
She wrote, “The glory belongs to God and to God alone.” She added, “Thankful, humbled by His mercy,” ending the message with a praying hands emoji. This brief but powerful post captured the significance of the moment, highlighting her deep emotions after what has been a stressful and highly publicized case.
Tears in the courtroom
As the verdict was read, Rihanna broke down in tears. A$AP Rocky, overwhelmed with relief, ran to her and embraced her tightly. The Los Angeles courtroom erupted with cheers as supporters celebrated the verdict. The raw emotion in the room reflected just how much was at stake for the rapper and his loved ones.
Rocky thanks the jury
Outside the courthouse, A$AP Rocky expressed gratitude. He thanked God and the jury for their decision. His attorney, Joe Tacopina, later revealed that while Rocky had hoped to protect Rihanna from the emotional strain of the trial, she insisted on standing by his side. Her unwavering support became one of the trial’s most talked-about aspects.
“Thanks y’all for saving my life,” A$AP Rocky told the jury. The panel, composed of seven women and five men, reached their decision after carefully evaluating all the evidence. Their unanimous verdict brought an end to a case that had been looming over the rapper for months.
Jury’s swift decision
The jury reached a unanimous verdict after just three hours of deliberation. This quick decision suggested that they found the defense’s arguments convincing. Before the trial began, Rocky had declined a plea deal that would have resulted in six months in jail and probation. His choice to fight the charges in court ultimately paid off.
Celebration after the verdict
A$AP Rocky celebrated his legal victory with Rihanna and his legal team. Relief washed over the couple as they left the courthouse, knowing that they could finally move forward with their lives without the burden of uncertainty hanging over them. The joyous moment marked the end of a legal battle that could have changed Rocky’s life forever.
Details of the case
Prosecutors claimed that Rocky fired two shots at his former friend, A$AP Relli, during a confrontation. Relli testified that one bullet grazed his knuckle, but Rocky’s defense team insisted that the shots came from a prop gun used in a music video. This crucial detail played a major role in shaping the jury’s perception of the case.
The court instructed the jury that Rocky could not be found guilty if they believed he acted in self-defense. This aspect of the case became a focal point during the trial, as the defense successfully argued that Rocky’s actions were not criminal in nature but rather a response to a perceived threat.
Rihanna’s support throughout the trial
The Barbados-born superstar attended every court session, showing her unwavering support. She was frequently seen sitting beside Rocky’s mother, Renee Black, and his sister, Erika B. Mayers. Her commitment to standing by Rocky made headlines, reinforcing the deep bond they share. She even brought their children, RZA, 2, and Riot Rose, 1, to the courtroom for the closing arguments, further emphasizing her dedication to her family.
Her presence sparked speculation about its potential impact on jurors. Prosecutors warned the jury not to let Rihanna’s fame or emotional connection to the case influence their judgment. Despite this, her presence undoubtedly added a unique dimension to the trial, drawing attention to the proceedings in an unprecedented way.
Jurors leave in silence
After delivering their verdict, jurors left the courtroom without speaking to the media. Their reasoning for the decision remains unclear, but many believe the defense’s presentation of the evidence, particularly the claim regarding the prop gun, played a crucial role in securing Rocky’s acquittal.
Defense lawyer celebrates victory
Joe Tacopina, Rocky’s lead attorney, stated that the jury “saw through this mirage of a case.” He emphasized that Rocky’s decision to reject a plea deal was a testament to his innocence. The swift and decisive verdict further reinforced the defense’s confidence in their case.
Deputy District Attorney John Lewin argued that Rihanna’s presence was a strategic move to sway the jury. He instructed jurors not to let her influence their judgment, stating, “You are not allowed to consider how this might affect Rihanna and his kids.” Despite this warning, Rihanna’s unwavering presence undoubtedly played a significant role in the public’s perception of the case.
Tacopina dismissed the prosecution’s claims, asserting that Rocky never wanted Rihanna to attend the trial in the first place. However, he admitted that she was determined to be there, saying, “Wild horses couldn’t keep her away.” This statement underscored the singer’s deep devotion to her partner.
Rocky’s anxiety before the verdict
Rocky arrived more than 30 minutes late for the verdict reading. He appeared tense and visibly shaken as he awaited his fate. His lawyer later revealed that, in that moment, Rocky had no idea if he would be spending the next two decades in prison or walking free.
Tacopina described Rocky’s reaction as pure relief and joy. “I didn’t know how athletic he was,” he remarked. “That was raw emotion. Even for us, it was insane.” The courtroom’s reaction mirrored this sentiment, with cheers and emotional embraces marking the dramatic conclusion of the case.
DA’s office responds
Los Angeles District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman issued a statement following the verdict. While he acknowledged the jury’s decision, he emphasized that fame does not place anyone above the law. His remarks underscored the prosecution’s firm stance on holding individuals accountable, regardless of their celebrity status.
Hochman also took a moment to thank his team for their dedication and hard work. He praised prosecutors Paul Przelomiec and John Lewin for their efforts, recognizing their commitment to justice. “Our mission remains clear: to uphold the law, protect public safety, and ensure justice for all,” he concluded. Despite the loss, the prosecution remained steadfast in its commitment to the legal process and its pursuit of accountability.
