American rapper Rakim Athelaston Mayers, better known as A$AP Rocky, has been acquitted of two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm following an intense three-week trial.
The courtroom erupted in emotion as the first “not guilty” verdict was announced. A$AP Rocky immediately rushed to his partner, Rihanna, who was present throughout the proceedings. The couple shared a heartfelt embrace, marking the end of a tense legal battle. Rihanna, clutching a teddy bear, broke into tears as she hugged members of A$AP’s defense team, visibly overwhelmed with relief.
“Thank y’all for saving my life,” A$AP Rocky exclaimed through sobs, embracing his legal team and raising his hands in a prayer-like gesture as the jury exited the courtroom. The rapper’s mother, who had been a steady presence during the trial, expressed her gratitude outside the courtroom, warmly hugging supporters and reporters who had followed the case.
As A$AP Rocky left the courtroom alongside his family, Rihanna’s relief was palpable. “Oh my God,” she said with a beaming smile, her voice echoing with joy and disbelief. Speaking to reporters outside, A$AP Rocky reflected on the ordeal: “This whole experience has been crazy these last four years. But I’m thankful, nonetheless, and blessed to be here right now, to be a free man talking to you.”
Rihanna later took to her Instagram Stories to share her gratitude, writing, “The Glory belongs to God and God only. Thankful, Humbled by his mercy,” in a post that underscored the emotional weight of the moment.
The trial, which captivated fans and the media alike, stemmed from allegations dating back four years. With the not guilty verdict, A$AP Rocky can now move forward, leaving behind a chapter that tested both his resilience and the support of those closest to him.