A$AP Rocky Found Not Guilty in Felony Assault Trial: What's Next for the Rapper and Rihanna

Image credits: Daniel Cole/Pool Photo via AP

A$AP Rocky was found not guilty of two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, and the verdict has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, was accused of firing a handgun at a former friend, A$AP Relli, in a November 2021 altercation. However, Rocky's lawyer, Joe Tacopina, argued that the rapper was carrying a prop gun and acted in self-defense. The jury deliberated for just three hours before delivering the not guilty verdict, sparing Rocky a potential prison sentence of over 24 years.

The verdict was met with emotional reactions from Rocky and his partner, Rihanna, who was present in the courtroom throughout the trial. Rocky leapt from the defense table into the gallery, where Rihanna sat between his mother and sister, and the two shared a tearful hug. Rihanna later shared a message of gratitude on her Instagram Stories, writing, "The glory belongs to God and God alone! Thankful, humbled by His mercy!" The couple is now shifting their focus to family and upcoming projects, including a potential new baby, with Rocky's lawyer revealing that the couple has promised to name their next child after him, A$AP Joe.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky have been making headlines in recent years, not only for their high-profile relationship but also for their individual projects. Rihanna has been teasing new music, while A$AP Rocky is set to headline the Rolling Loud music festival in March and star in a new film, "Highest 2 Lowest," directed by Spike Lee. The couple has also been enjoying family time with their two sons, RZA and Riot, and are planning a family trip to spend quality time together. With the trial behind them, the couple can now look forward to a brighter future, free from the stress and uncertainty of the legal proceedings.

The trial was a highly publicized and dramatic affair, with both the prosecution and defense presenting their cases to the jury. The prosecution argued that Rocky had fired a real gun at A$AP Relli, while the defense claimed that the rapper was carrying a prop gun and acted in self-defense. The jury ultimately sided with the defense, delivering a not guilty verdict that has been met with relief and celebration from Rocky's fans and supporters. As the couple looks to the future, they can now focus on their music and family without the burden of the trial hanging over them.

In the aftermath of the verdict, A$AP Rocky and Rihanna have been basking in the joy and relief of the outcome. The couple has been spotted out and about, enjoying quality time together and with their sons. With the trial behind them, they can now look forward to a brighter future, filled with new projects, new music, and new additions to their family. The verdict has also sparked a wider conversation about the justice system and the treatment of celebrities in the legal process. As the couple moves forward, they will undoubtedly continue to make headlines and inspire their fans with their love, music, and commitment to their family.