A$AP Rocky Turns Down Plea Deal as Trial Opens on Charges He Fired a Gun at a Former Friend

A$AP Rocky, a 36-year-old hip-hop star, fashion mogul, and actor, has turned down a final prosecution plea offer of 180 days in jail, risking the possibility of a guilty verdict and years in prison as jury selection began at his trial on Tuesday.

The Plea Offer

The agreement offered to Rocky, whose legal name is Rakim Mayers, was to plead guilty to one of two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. Los Angeles County prosecutors would also recommend a seven-year suspended sentence, three years of probation, and the six-month jail term.

Rocky Declines the Plea

However, Rocky told a judge he respectfully declined the offer.

The Charges

Rocky is accused of firing at a former friend near a Hollywood hotel in 2021, and could face a maximum sentence of 24 years in prison if convicted. He has pleaded not guilty.

The Defense’s Strategy

Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, revealed for the first time in court that the defense plans to call witnesses to testify that a firearm seen on a security video is a starter pistol that Rocky carried as a prop for security.

Jury Selection Begins

A panel of over 100 prospective jurors was summoned to the downtown Los Angeles courtroom, and opening statements are expected to begin once 12 of them and alternates are seated. Cameras will be allowed in the courtroom starting with openings.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky’s Personal Life

Rocky has been named one of the celebrity chairs of the Met Gala in May, and has a major role in a Spike Lee-directed film with Denzel Washington to be released soon after. However, his life could be upended with a conviction. Rocky’s longtime partner is Rihanna, and the couple have two toddler sons together. Tacopina suggested that it’s unlikely Rihanna will show up in court.

The Trial Proceeds

Superior Court Judge Mark Arnold has said he hopes to seat a jury quickly, and is keeping strict limits on how long attorneys can question prospective jurors. “Mr. Mayers is an entertainer,” Arnold told the prospective jurors. “His stage name is A$AP Rocky. His life partner is also an entertainer. Her name is Rihanna. Because Mr. Mayers is an entertainer, a celebrity, that cannot harm him, and it cannot benefit him.”

Conclusion

The trial of A$AP Rocky has begun, with the rapper turning down a plea deal and opting to go to trial. The prosecution and defense have presented their cases, and now it’s up to the jury to decide Rocky’s fate. Will he be found guilty and face years in prison, or will he be acquitted and continue his career as a successful rapper and fashion mogul?

FAQs

* What is A$AP Rocky charged with?
A$AP Rocky is charged with two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm.
* What is the maximum sentence he could face if convicted?
The maximum sentence Rocky could face if convicted is 24 years in prison.
* What is the defense’s strategy?
The defense plans to call witnesses to testify that a firearm seen on a security video is a starter pistol that Rocky carried as a prop for security.
* Will Rihanna attend the trial?
It’s unlikely that Rihanna will attend the trial, according to Rocky’s attorney.