A$AP Rocky Faces Trial Date in Shooting Case Involving A$AP Relli
A$AP Rocky has been scheduled for trial following his not-guilty plea in the shooting case involving A$AP Relli. Superior Court Judge Karla Kerlin has set preliminary hearing dates for June 28 and August 2, with the trial slated to begin on October 21, as reported by Rolling Stone.
The Harlem rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, faces two counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm. If convicted, he could face up to 24 years in prison.
The charges stem from an incident in Hollywood in 2021 during a heated argument where Rocky allegedly shot at his former friend, A$AP Relli. Relli has accused Rocky of breaking a promise to assist the family of a deceased A$AP Mob member, leading to escalating tensions. During a meeting in a Los Angeles hotel, Relli claims Rocky pointed a gun at his stomach and threatened to kill him before shooting him four times, including once in the hand.
Security footage from nearby parking garages reportedly shows Rocky with a firearm during the altercation. A video presented during a preliminary hearing captured audio of two gunshots around 10 p.m. on November 6, 2021, consistent with the timeline provided by prosecutors.
In addition to the criminal charges, Relli is suing Rocky and his attorney, Joe Tacopina, for defamation. Relli’s lawyer, Camille Vasquez, alleges that Tacopina falsely claimed in a September 2021 Rolling Stone interview that Rocky did not shoot Relli and described the incident as a fabricated attempt to extort money. Relli asserts that these statements have damaged his reputation and personal brand within the A$AP Mob community, potentially affecting his future income. He is seeking punitive damages and legal fees.
The upcoming trial will determine Rocky’s legal fate and address the serious allegations brought forth by Relli.