After deliberation with his lawyer, A$AP Rocky has decided not to testify in his felony firearm assault trial in Los Angeles. The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, confirmed his decision to Judge Mark Arnold during the final phase of the trial.
Rocky Exercises His Fifth Amendment Right
Judge Arnold informed Rocky of his right to testify or remain silent under the Fifth Amendment, stating:
“You have a right to get on the stand and give your side of the case… You cannot be compelled to testify. It’s totally your decision.”
Rocky responded, “I want my right to not testify,” leading his legal team to rest their case. Closing arguments are now scheduled for Thursday.
Defense Strategy & Testimonies
Earlier, Rocky’s lawyer, Joe Tacopina, suggested that his client might testify. Instead, the defense relied on two members of A$AP Mob—A$AP Twelvyy and A$AP Lou—to support Rocky’s claim that he was only carrying a prop gun during his 2021 confrontation with A$AP Relli (Terell Ephron).
• A$AP Twelvyy testified that everyone present knew the gun was fake.
• A$AP Lou, a tour manager, stated that Rocky got the prop gun from the “D.M.B.” music video set and that he personally returned it after the alleged incident.
Prosecution’s Claims
Prosecutors argue that Rocky fired two real 9mm bullets at Ephron during an altercation in Hollywood on November 6, 2021. Ephron claims that one bullet grazed his left hand, leaving visible wounds.
Tacopina, however, contends that:
• Ephron was the aggressor, attacking A$AP Illz during the confrontation.
• Rocky only fired two blanks as warning shots to stop Ephron.
• Ephron allegedly planted shell casings after police found no evidence of a shooting at the scene.
• The allegations are part of Ephron’s $30 million lawsuit against Rocky.
Rihanna’s Courtroom Support
Rocky’s partner, Rihanna, has attended five of the 11 trial days. She was seen giving Rocky a long hug outside the courtroom on Friday before leaving the courthouse with him arm-in-arm.
What’s Next?
With Rocky choosing not to take the stand, the trial moves into closing arguments on Thursday. If convicted, the rapper faces years in prison.
