A$AP Rocky Chooses Not to Testify in Gun Assault Trial | Entertainment & Arts News
A$AP Rocky will refrain from testifying at his trial concerning allegations he discharged a firearm at a prior friend and collaborator.
During court proceedings in Los Angeles on Tuesday, the 36-year-old rapper was inquired by Superior Court Judge Mark Arnold if he had conferred about the matter with his legal representation.
“Absolutely, your honour,” Rocky responded, indicating he would assert his Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. “I wish to exercise my right not to testify.”
The rapper could face up to 24 years in prison if convicted. Pic: Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times via AP
The artist’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, previously expressed he was “eager to share his story” and would “welcome the chance to do so,” but having a defendant undergo a possibly lengthy cross-examination often poses significant risks in criminal cases.
Rocky, who was born Rakim Mayers, stands accused of firing a weapon at Terell Ephron, also known as A$AP Relli, a former friend and member of the A$AP collective that they both belonged to during their schooling in New York.
Ephron testified earlier in the trial, indicating that their friendship had deteriorated and a conflict allegedly escalated on a night in November 2021.
At the trial’s commencement, jurors were shown surveillance footage that prosecutors argue clearly depicts Rocky discharging a firearm at Ephron outside a Hollywood parking garage.
Conversely, Mr. Tacopina stated in his opening defense remarks that the firearm was not legitimate, but rather a prop starter pistol. He accused Ephron of being driven by “jealousy, falsehoods, and avarice,” as presented to the court.
Terell Ephron, aka A$AP Relli, states Rocky fired a gun at him. Pic: Frazer Harrison/Pool via AP
‘Non-lethal form of self-defence’
On Monday, Rocky’s tour manager Lou Levin became the second witness from his inner circle to assert that he carried a fake firearm for protection.
He testified that the star’s residence had previously experienced a break-in by a stalker and others, prompting him to suggest it was sensible to carry it.
“Security and I concluded it would be a prudent decision due to prior violent incidents,” Mr. Levin told the court. “It’s just a non-lethal method of self-defense.”
Rocky’s partner Rihanna has been present in court to provide support on multiple occasions throughout the trial. Pic: AP/Liam McEwan
The firearm was originally part of a video shoot in the summer of 2021, he stated, occurring around three months prior to the incident in question.
The defense has indicated they currently do not possess the starter pistol. Additionally, authorities did not recover the alleged firearm used during the incident.
Rocky is facing two felony charges of assault with a semiautomatic firearm.
Before the trial commenced, he declined a plea agreement that would have resulted in a 180-day jail sentence in exchange for a guilty plea on a single count.
If convicted, he could face up to 24 years in prison.
The defense has now concluded its case, with closing remarks from both parties anticipated later this week.
A Grammy-nominated music artist, actor, and fashion mogul, Rocky is the partner of pop superstar Rihanna, with the couple welcoming two young sons.
Rihanna has been present in court on several occasions to show her support.
