In a highly publicized legal battle, rapper A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, was acquitted of felony assault charges on February 18, 2025. The charges stemmed from a November 2021 incident in Hollywood, where he was accused of firing a handgun at his former friend and A$AP Mob member, Terell Ephron, known as A$AP Relli. The trial, which lasted nearly four weeks, concluded with a unanimous not guilty verdict.
Upon hearing the verdict, an emotional A$AP Rocky turned to the jury and expressed his gratitude with a heartfelt six-word message: “Thank y’all for saving my life.” He then embraced his partner, Rihanna, who had been a steadfast presence throughout the proceedings. Rihanna, visibly moved, was seen hugging defense attorneys and shedding tears of relief. The couple’s two young sons, RZA and Riot, were also present during parts of the trial, underscoring the family’s unity during this challenging period.
The incident in question occurred in November 2021, when tensions between A$AP Rocky and A$AP Relli escalated into a confrontation on a Hollywood street. Relli alleged that Rocky had fired a handgun at him during the altercation. However, the defense argued that the weapon in question was a prop gun that fired blanks, and no physical evidence, such as shell casings or fingerprints, was found to support the prosecution’s claims.
Following the acquittal, A$AP Rocky and Rihanna celebrated privately. In honor of both the trial’s outcome and Rihanna’s 37th birthday, Rocky gifted her a diamond pendant necklace shaped like the scales of justice. The intimate celebration included their sons and symbolized a fresh start for the family.
In the aftermath of the verdict, A$AP Relli broke his silence, taking to social media to express his indifference to public opinion, stating that gossip did not affect him. The trial’s conclusion allows A$AP Rocky to move forward without the looming threat of imprisonment, enabling him to focus on his music career and family life.
This case highlights the complexities of legal disputes involving public figures and underscores the importance of evidence in securing a conviction. For A$AP Rocky, the not guilty verdict marks the end of a tumultuous chapter, paving the way for new personal and professional opportunities.
