A$AP Rocky, the 36-year-old rapper and partner of Rihanna, has been accused of allegedly assaulting former friend A$AP Relli (Terell Ephron) in November 2021. The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, appeared in a Los Angeles court on January 21, 2025, to plead not guilty to two counts of assault.
According to Deputy District Attorney Paul Przelomiec, a plea deal was offered to the rapper, which would include 180 days in jail if he is found guilty of the first count of assault. The agreement also outlined three years of probation, 480 hours of community service, and a seven-year suspended sentence with the possibility of a 24-year sentence if further offenses occur.
In court, when asked if he had reviewed the plea deal, Rocky responded, “Yeah, they spoke to me about it in detail, Your Honour. I respectfully decline, thank you.”
Judge Mark S. Arnold, presiding over the case, made it clear that Rocky would not receive special treatment due to his celebrity status or his relationship with Rihanna. “That’s not going to inure to your benefit, and it’s not going to inure to your harm,” the judge stated. He also informed Rocky of the potential consequences if convicted, including a significant prison sentence. Rocky acknowledged this, stating, “Yes, Your Honour, I’m well aware.”
During the hearing, Rocky explained that he was carrying a prop gun the night of the alleged incident.
The case has continued to draw attention, with many fans and media outlets following the developments closely.