Opening statements began Friday in the assault trial against rapper A$AP Rocky, who faces allegations of firing a gun at a former friend in Los Angeles. The Grammy-nominated artist, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, faces up to 24 years in prison if convicted on two felony assault charges related to the 2021 incident near a Hollywood hotel.
The hip-hop star, known for his music and fashion ventures, has pleaded not guilty to the charges. Mayers, who is also the longtime partner of singer Rihanna, has denied all allegations.
The victim, Terell Ephron, a fellow artist and childhood friend, testified last year that bullets grazed his knuckles, prompting him to seek medical attention after flying back to New York. A jury of seven women and five men was selected earlier this week, and the trial is expected to last about three weeks.
Authorities allege the shooting occurred on November 6, 2021, following a “heated discussion” between Mayers and Ephron in Hollywood. Both men were members of the A$AP Mob collective and had known each other since their high school days in New York.
According to charging documents, Mayers allegedly brandished a weapon in a threatening manner during an outdoor argument, just a block away from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Prosecutors claim he later fired the weapon twice in Ephron’s direction, causing a minor injury.
Mayers rejected a plea deal ahead of the trial, maintaining that the weapon involved was a “prop gun” incapable of firing live ammunition. Media reports indicate the plea deal would have included 180 days in prison. Mayers’ attorney, Joe Tacopina, said the defense is ready to prove the rapper’s innocence.
Key points of contention include the police investigation and Ephron’s injuries. Mayers’ legal team has argued for dismissal, citing delays in Ephron’s reporting of the incident. Authorities who initially responded to the scene did not find shell casings, but Ephron later returned and collected two casings, which he submitted when reporting the incident two days later.
The firearm allegedly used in the shooting has not been recovered. Mayers’ lawyers have also questioned the nature of Ephron’s hand injury, suggesting it may have resulted from a physical altercation rather than a gunshot.
The trial comes during a pivotal time for Mayers, who recently welcomed his second child with Rihanna. In May, he is set to co-chair the 2025 Met Gala alongside prominent figures such as Anna Wintour, Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams, and LeBron James. Later this year, Mayers will appear in Spike Lee’s film “Highest 2 Lowest,” starring alongside Denzel Washington.
Mayers has faced legal challenges before. In 2019, he received a two-year suspended sentence for his involvement in a brawl in Stockholm. The case gained international attention after former U.S. President Donald Trump unsuccessfully sought his release during the trial.
Born in New York City, Mayers emerged as one of the top breakout stars of the 2010s, earning eight platinum singles in the U.S., including hits like “Wild For The Night,” “Everyday,” “LSD,” and “A$AP Forever.” He rose to fame with support from artists like Drake and has collaborated with prominent names such as Alicia Keys, Lana Del Rey, Skepta, Selena Gomez, and Kendrick Lamar.
