A$AP Rocky’s Lawyer Claims Rapper Was Carrying a ‘Prop Gun,’ Trial Starts with Heated Court Exchange
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A$AP Rocky’s lawyer has made a bold claim, stating that the firearm involved in an altercation with A$AP Relli in November 2021 was actually just a ‘prop gun’ used to scare off potential threats. The trial for A$AP Rocky began with opening statements on Friday, January 24, where he is facing two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. A$AP Relli, who was absent from court, has accused Rocky of firing a semi-automatic handgun at him in 2021.
During the prosecution team’s opening statements, Deputy District Attorney Paul B. Przelomiec detailed the events leading up to the altercation, mentioning that Relli had expected to just ‘argue’ and mend their relationship that night. The defence is expected to present an alternative explanation for the events of that evening. Rocky’s lawyer, Joe Tacopina, began by labelling Relli as a ‘fraud’ who is using a ‘fabricated story’ to extort money from Rocky.
In surveillance footage shown in court, Rocky can be seen holding a gun, but Tacopina maintains that it was merely a ‘prop gun’ advised by security to carry for self-defence against potential attackers. He also highlighted that Rocky is licensed to carry a firearm in California. The prosecution introduced new evidence on Thursday night, including two shell casings retrieved by Relli from the scene, which they claim match characteristics of a Glock model.
The defence team expressed concern over the timing of this submission, requesting more time to have their own expert examine the evidence. Judge Mark S. Arnold granted the request, offering to arrange an expedited examination at the court’s expense. Despite rejecting a plea deal last Tuesday, Rocky faces up to four years in jail if found guilty. The trial was delayed from its original November date due to scheduling conflicts.
During a previous hearing, Detective Frank Flores testified and presented surveillance video capturing the altercation, where loud pops resembling gunshots were heard. However, the gun was never recovered, and the shell casings had no fingerprints. Relli, a former associate of A$AP Mob, claimed to have been hit by bullet fragments and sought medical attention in NYC after the incident. Rocky denies all allegations and has entered a non-guilty plea.
Relli testified that tension escalated between them after Rocky attained solo success and reportedly badmouthed him following a dispute over financial assistance for a mutual friend’s funeral. The altercation ensued in front of a parking garage, with surveillance footage showing a physical confrontation between the men. Relli alleges Rocky fired shots at him, prompting him to use another individual as a shield.
Rocky was arrested at Los Angeles International Airport in April 2022 and later released on bail. The trial proceedings have been tense, with both sides presenting conflicting narratives of the events leading to the altercation. As the trial continues, the evidence will be examined further to determine the truth behind the allegations and Rocky’s claim of self-defence. Stay tuned for updates as the trial unfolds.
In light of the ongoing proceedings, it remains to be seen how the evidence will be weighed and whether A$AP Rocky’s defence of carrying a ‘prop gun’ will hold up in court. The case highlights the complexities of legal battles involving high-profile individuals and underscores the importance of a fair and thorough judicial process. The outcome of the trial will have significant implications for both Rocky and Relli, shaping their future trajectories within the music industry and beyond.