A$AP Rocky's Trial Kicks Off: Prosecutors Present Video Evidence in Shooting Case
The assault trial of rapper A$AP Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, began Friday in Los Angeles. The hip-hop star faces serious allegations of firing a gun at former friend and fellow artist Terell Ephron in 2021. If convicted on two felony assault charges, the rapper could face up to 24 years in prison.
During opening statements, prosecutors accused the Grammy-nominated rapper of instigating the violence. They alleged that Mayers planned the confrontation, which escalated into a shooting near a Hollywood hotel. The rapper has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges.
The Allegations and the Incident
Prosecutors presented video evidence they claim supports their case. Deputy District Attorney Paul Przelomiec described the incident as straightforward, arguing that Mayers was the aggressor. According to Przelomiec, the altercation stemmed from a disagreement between Mayers and Ephron, both long-time members of the A$AP Mob collective. The two have known each other since their high school days in New York.
Ephron testified last year that bullets grazed his knuckles during the November 6, 2021, incident in Hollywood, just a block from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He recalled seeking medical treatment after flying back to New York.
Prosecutors claim the shooting occurred during a heated argument, which was partially captured on video. One clip reportedly shows Mayers drawing a firearm, although the footage does not clearly depict him firing. In another video, gunshots can be heard amid a scuffle involving the same group.
The prosecution also highlighted text messages between the two men after the incident. Ephron allegedly accused Mayers of attempting to kill him, writing, “U try killing me.” The rapper’s response was dismissive, replying, “wtf iz ut talking about.”
The Defense Responds
Mayers’ attorney, Joe Tacopina, countered the allegations by claiming the gun in question was a starter pistol incapable of firing live rounds. He argued that the rapper carried the prop weapon on the advice of his security team for personal protection. Tacopina described the case as a fallout driven by greed, stating, “This is about jealousy and money—nothing more than a baseless attempt at extortion.”
The defense also pointed out inconsistencies in the investigation. Police initially found no evidence of gunfire at the scene. However, Ephron later returned to the area and provided shell casings to authorities two days after the incident. Tacopina emphasized that the case hinges on Ephron’s credibility, telling the jury, “This trial will rise and fall on his testimony.”
A Crucial Time for A$AP Rocky
The trial comes at a pivotal moment in Mayers’ career. In May, he is set to co-chair the prestigious 2025 Met Gala alongside Rihanna, Lewis Hamilton, Pharrell Williams, and LeBron James. Additionally, the rapper is slated to star in a Spike Lee film, Highest 2 Lowest, alongside Denzel Washington later this summer.
Mayers has faced legal challenges before. In 2019, he received a two-year suspended sentence for his involvement in a Stockholm street fight. Despite his claim of self-defense, the court convicted him and two associates of assaulting a 19-year-old man. That case gained international attention, even prompting then-President Donald Trump to intervene unsuccessfully.
A Legacy in Music and Fashion
Born in New York City, A$AP Rocky emerged as a leading voice in hip-hop during the 2010s. With eight platinum-certified singles, including hits like Wild for the Night and A$AP Forever, he has collaborated with top artists such as Kendrick Lamar, Lana Del Rey, and Alicia Keys. Beyond music, he is also a celebrated fashion icon and the longtime partner of global superstar Rihanna, with whom he shares two children.
As the trial unfolds, all eyes will be on the courtroom. With a jury now in place, testimony is expected to last three weeks, with Ephron set to take the stand as a key witness. The stakes are high, not just for Mayers’ personal life but also for his career and reputation.
