A$AP Rocky Rejects Plea Deal as Trial Begins Over Gun Charges Involving Former Friend
The rapper faces a potential 24-year prison sentence as jury selection starts in his trial for firing a gun at a childhood friend.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A$AP Rocky, the hip-hop superstar, declined a final plea offer from prosecutors as his trial on charges of firing a gun at a former friend began in Los Angeles on Tuesday. The 36-year-old rapper, whose legal name is Rakim Mayers, turned down the prosecution’s offer of 180 days in jail, a seven-year suspended sentence, three years of probation, and a six-month jail term.
Rocky is accused of firing a firearm at his former friend Terell Ephron near a Hollywood hotel in November 2021. If convicted, he faces up to 24 years in prison. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Defense attorney Joe Tacopina revealed for the first time in court that the defense intends to call witnesses to testify that the gun seen in a security video was actually a starter pistol, which Rocky had used as a prop for security purposes.
The courtroom was filled with over 100 prospective jurors as jury selection got underway. Opening statements are expected to begin once 12 jurors and alternates are seated, which could happen as early as Wednesday. Cameras will be allowed in the courtroom when the trial formally begins.
Tacopina also addressed the potential influence of Rocky's celebrity, pointing out that the rapper’s long-time partner, Rihanna, is also a famous entertainer. However, Tacopina indicated that it was unlikely Rihanna would appear in court during the trial.
A notable figure in both the fashion and music worlds, Rocky's personal and professional life could be drastically impacted by a conviction. Recently, he was named one of the celebrity chairs for the 2025 Met Gala, and he stars in an upcoming Spike Lee-directed film with Denzel Washington.
Judge Mark Arnold, overseeing the trial, has emphasized the need to expedite jury selection and limited the time attorneys could question prospective jurors. He reminded the panel that Rocky’s celebrity status should not impact the fairness of the trial.
As the process of questioning the jurors continued, it was revealed that many had been affected by the recent wildfires in the Los Angeles area, with one woman fostering displaced animals and at least one man needing to evacuate. Judge Arnold also shared that he had been evacuated from his home for 11 days but was fortunate that his property was not damaged.
During the questioning, Tacopina explored jurors' opinions on hip-hop music, with several panelists acknowledging negative feelings toward the genre. Deputy District Attorney John Lewin reassured jurors that they would not be asked to make a decision based on their opinions about rap music.
Tacopina, who shares a New York background with his client, lightened the atmosphere by joking about his accent and asking if anyone had a problem with New Yorkers. His humorous comment was met with laughter, and he concluded by expressing his affection for Los Angeles.
As the trial continues, Rocky’s future hangs in the balance, with the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence looming if convicted.