A$AP Rocky has rejected a final plea deal from prosecutors, which included a 180-day jail sentence, opting instead to face trial.
The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, could face years in prison if convicted. Jury selection began on Tuesday in the Los Angeles trial.
The Grammy-nominated artist and partner of Rihanna is charged with two felony counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm. The charges stem from a November 6, 2021, incident in Hollywood, where he allegedly fired a handgun twice at a former friend and collaborator during a confrontation.
Mayers, who waived his right to appear in person for earlier proceedings, will attend the trial, according to his attorney Joe Tacopina. He was charged on August 15, 2022, and pleaded not guilty. He was released on bond with an order prohibiting contact with the alleged victim.
If convicted, Mayers faces up to 24 years in prison.
Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón stated, “Discharging a gun in a public place is a serious offense that could have had tragic consequences for both the targeted individual and innocent bystanders.” Gascón’s office added a special firearm allegation after reviewing the evidence.
The alleged victim, Terrell Ephron, also known as A$AP Relli, is a former friend and member of A$AP Mob.
Ephron filed a civil lawsuit in August 2022, accusing Mayers of assault, battery, emotional distress, and negligence. He claimed to have been struck by bullet fragments during the incident, resulting in physical and emotional injuries.
Ephron later filed a defamation lawsuit in September 2023 against Mayers and his legal team, alleging false statements made about him. Both lawsuits are ongoing, with Mayers and his attorneys denying all allegations.
The trial marks a significant moment for the rapper, who faces serious legal consequences if found guilty.
