A$AP Rocky has been found not guilty on all counts in his high-profile felony assault trial, where he was accused of shooting A$AP Relli in November 2021.

The trial, which began on January 24, concluded nearly three weeks later on February 14. The jury deliberated for just three hours on February 18 before reaching their decision.

As soon as the verdict was announced, an emotional Rocky leaped over the barrier to embrace his family in the front row, with cheers erupting in the courtroom. While leaving, he expressed his gratitude to the jurors, saying:

“Thank y’all for saving my life. Thank y’all for making the right decision.”

Rihanna & Family Show Support

Throughout the trial, Rihanna made appearances in court to support her partner. However, on February 13, she arrived with their two sons—2-year-old RZA and 1-year-old Riot—marking the first time the children were present during the proceedings.

The Case & Controversy

The prosecution, led by Paul Przelomiec, built its case around whether the firearm in question was real or a prop, as Rocky claimed. He was facing two felony charges of assault with a semiautomatic weapon, which carried a possible 24-year sentence if convicted. Prosecutors had been prepared to recommend 8 to 10 years.

Judge Arnold reminded the jury that self-defense would be a valid legal defense if Rocky reasonably believed he was in imminent danger.

Last week, the rapper waived his right to testify, responding to the judge’s inquiry with a firm:

“I do in fact, Your Honor.”

A$AP Mob Members Take the Stand

Several A$AP Mob members, including A$AP Lou and A$AP Twelvyy, testified in Rocky’s defense, supporting his version of events.

A standout moment occurred on February 7, when prosecutors asked Twelvyy about the meaning behind AWGE, Rocky’s creative agency. The rapper has never publicly disclosed the meaning, and when Twelvyy hesitated to answer, Rocky interrupted from the defense table, instructing him:

“Don’t say it.”

AWGE has a long-standing rule:

1) Never reveal what AWGE means. 2) When in doubt, always refer to rule #1.

When pressed again by the prosecution, Twelvyy played it safe, responding:

“I heard something. I’m not too sure what I heard. I was listening to you.”

50 Cent’s Big Bet

Ahead of the verdict, hip-hop mogul 50 Cent made headlines for saying he was willing to bet big money that A$AP Rocky would beat the case. His confidence proved right as the rapper walked away a free man.

This high-profile trial had the industry and fans on edge, but with the jury’s decision, A$AP Rocky can now move forward without the weight of these charges hanging over him.