LOS ANGELES — A$AP Rocky is considering the possibility of testifying in his ongoing trial, which centers around two felony assault charges involving a semiautomatic firearm.
During discussions with a judge about the trial’s final stages, Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, indicated that his client might take the stand on Tuesday or the defense may rest its case. Meanwhile, the prosecution’s legal team is preparing overnight for the potential testimony from Rocky.
Although he is not obligated to testify, doing so could pose significant risks due to the potential for challenging cross-examination in criminal trials.
Prior to the trial, Tacopina expressed that Rocky was excited about sharing his side of the story and welcomed the opportunity to explain his situation.
The attorneys involved in the case were unable to provide comments to the media due to a judge’s order prohibiting them from speaking outside the courtroom. If convicted, Rocky faces a significant sentence of up to 24 years in prison, having declined a pre-trial plea deal that would have resulted in a sentence of just 180 days.
Should Rocky choose to testify, he is likely to encounter a rigorous and aggressive cross-examination from Deputy District Attorney John Lewin, known for his relentless questioning style. Lewin gained notoriety in a previous case for extensively interrogating real estate heir Robert Durst, who was ultimately convicted of murder after being on the stand for nine days.
A$AP Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, is not just a renowned hip-hop artist but also a fashion entrepreneur and is in a long-term relationship with the famous vocalist Rihanna. Together, they have two young sons, and she may be present in court to witness his testimony. Rihanna has made occasional appearances in the courtroom, most recently on Friday, when she and Rocky were seen leaving together.
During the trial, it is anticipated that Rocky will argue that the gun he discharged in a confrontation with an acquaintance on the streets of Hollywood in 2021 was actually a starter pistol capable of firing only blanks. He reportedly carried the weapon for personal security.
On Monday, his tour manager testified as the second witness from Rocky’s close circle, stating that Rocky possessed the non-lethal firearm. Lou Levin mentioned that after Rocky’s home was broken into by a stalker, it seemed like a prudent move for their safety.
Levin explained to the court that the use of a starter pistol was a precautionary measure in light of previous violent incidents. He further noted that he had obtained the weapon during a video shoot in the summer of 2021, which took place a few months prior to the events that led to the current charges.
Levin also mentioned returning the starter pistol to the co-director of the music video, who did not have it available when Levin inquired after Rocky’s arrest. The defense team confirmed they no longer possess the starter pistol.
Moreover, authorities failed to recover the alleged firearm used by Rocky. In his testimony, Levin revealed that an ammunition magazine discovered during a search of Rocky’s home actually belonged to him.
The prosecutor, Lewin, accused Levin of fabricating a narrative to explain the presence of the magazine, labeling the entire account as misleading. However, Levin defended his testimony, insisting his account was truthful.