LOS ANGELES — A$AP Rocky finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career. The hip-hop artist, who shares two young sons with partner Rihanna, faces a trial that commences on Tuesday and could lead to severe consequences, including years behind bars. However, in 2025, he could also experience significant elevation in his fame, particularly with his prominent role as a celebrity chair for the upcoming Met Gala this May, alongside stars like Pharrell Williams and LeBron James.
His acting endeavors are also set for a major uplift as he is cast to star alongside Denzel Washington in Spike Lee’s upcoming film, “Highest 2 Lowest.” The film is expected to hit theaters in the summer. Yet the three-week trial in Los Angeles poses serious risks, as he stands accused of two felony counts of assault involving a semiautomatic firearm, stemming from an incident in 2021 where he allegedly fired on a former friend outside a Hollywood hotel. If the jury finds him guilty, he could face a sentence of up to 24 years in prison.
The 36-year-old rapper has maintained his not guilty plea, with his attorney asserting his innocence. “We’re ready to go. It’s been a long time,” attorney Joe Tacopina said after a recent court hearing, expressing eagerness to resolve the situation that has lingered over Rocky, Rihanna, and their family for an extended period.
The case’s origins stretch back to their teenage years in New York, where Rakim Mayers, known as A$AP Rocky, first met Terell Ephron, who goes by A$AP Relli and is set to testify as a key witness. At a preliminary hearing last year, Ephron discussed how he introduced Rocky into the A$AP crew, established to support aspiring artists and creators. “We had dreams, pretty much,” he remarked, highlighting the camaraderie that existed long before financial success altered their relationships.
Tensions escalated dramatically on the night of November 6, 2021, when Ephron alleges that Rocky shot at him three or four times, narrowly missing him. This accusation prompted Ephron to approach the police two days later, presenting them with shell casings that he had retrieved himself—an action the defense intends to emphasize during the trial.
The trial is notable not only for its cast of characters but also for the looming presence of high-profile figures like President-elect Donald Trump and Rihanna. The proceedings commence just after Trump’s second inauguration, and Rocky previously garnered attention from the former president during his time in jail in Sweden for an unrelated incident. Although Trump may have no influence over this legal matter, the interest remains. Curiosity also surrounds whether Rihanna will attend the trial, as Judge Mark Arnold inquired during a court session. Tacopina has indicated that while he anticipates Rihanna’s absence, any decision is ultimately theirs to make.
Judge Arnold, known for his straightforward demeanor, expressed his desire to streamline the jury selection process and eschew many formalities typically seen in court. In an unusual stance for LA County courts, he plans to permit cameras throughout most of the trial, asserting that public access to courtroom proceedings is essential.
Tacopina, who has represented other known hip-hop artists, is known for his engaging personality and sharp legal acumen. During a prior hearing, he made light of Ephron’s minor injuries, which led to some reprimands for his tone. The prosecution, spearheaded by Deputy District Attorney Paul Przelomiec and later joined by veteran prosecutor John Lewin, is recognized for their strategic approach to questioning and trial preparation.
The evidence against A$AP Rocky primarily hinges on the credibility of Ephron as a witness. After responding to reports of gunfire, police found no shell casings on site, and a search of Rocky’s premises yielded no firearms. Surveillance footage captured moments of the incident, portraying an individual wearing a hooded sweatshirt—believed to be Rocky—holding what appears to be a weapon, although definitive identification remains contested.
Tacopina has not made a final decision on whether Rocky will take the stand, a right he holds. However, the rapper is reportedly enthusiastic about the chance to share his narrative. “He is eager to tell his story, he would love the opportunity to do so,” the lawyer conveyed, emphasizing Rocky’s articulate nature and good character, though highlighting that the timeline of decision-making will depend on how the trial unfolds.
