Rihanna Celebrates A$AP Rocky’s Not Guilty Verdict in Felony Shooting Trial

In a hard-fought legal battle, A$AP Rocky emerged victorious in his felony shooting trial, leading to release on all charges. Rihanna, his dedicated partner who shares two children with him, expressed her relief and gratitude through an emotional Instagram Story.

The Emotional Verdict

The Los Angeles courtroom erupted in cheers and relief as the verdict was read. Rihanna, who had supported her boyfriend through the trial, broke down in tears as Rocky ran to embrace her. This moment was a stark contrast to the earlier tension-filled atmosphere of the legal proceedings.

Rihanna’s Emotional message

Rihanna took to her Instagram Stories on Tuesday night to share her feelings, posting a heartfelt message that highlighted her spiritual gratitude. “The glory belongs to God and to God alone,” she wrote, adding, “Thankful, humbled by His mercy.” She concluded her message with a praying hands emoji, underlining the importance of faith in her life.

Rihanna’s Instagram post following the verdict.

Rocky’s Gratitude

Outside the courtroom, Rocky was equally emotional, expressing his gratitude not only to the jury but to God as well. His attorney, Joe Tacopina, noted that Rocky had hoped to shield Rihanna from the trial, acknowledging that “wild horses couldn’t keep her away.” This sentiment echoed Rihanna’s presence in the courtroom, where she often sat between Rocky’s mother Renee Black and sister Erika B. Mayers.

Rihanna shares a moment with A$AP Rocky post-trial.

Legal Rulings and Missed Plea Deal

The jury reached a unanimous decision after deliberating for about three hours following the conclusion of closing arguments. Rocky had previously turned down a plea offer for a six-month jail sentence and probation, opting instead to fight the charges based on his claims of self-defense. The prosecution had argued that Rocky shot twice at A$AP Relli, a former friend who had been shot by a stray bullet from Rocky’s gun.

Rocky and Rihanna’s emotional reunion following the verdict.

Legal Teams’ Perspectives

Rocky’s legal team maintained that he shot blanks from a prop gun he obtained for a music video, asserting that his actions were in self-defense. Despite the gravity of the case, the jury was instructed that Rocky could not be found guilty if he was defending himself. This ruling was pivotal in shaping their decision.

Legal team’s claim that the gunshots were blanks.

Prosecution’s Stance

The prosecution, led by Deputy District Attorney John Lewin, took a different stance, urging the jury to disregard Rihanna’s presence in the courtroom. He argued that her presence could influence the decision, advising jurors to focus on the facts and actions of the defendants.

Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, on the jury’s decision.

The Jury’s Decision

Despite the prosecution’s reservations, the jury remained steadfast in their decision, believing Rocky’s claims of self-defense. Attorney Joe Tacopina noted that “wild horses couldn’t keep her away,” meaning Rihanna’s presence had a significant emotional impact on the proceedings but was not considered in the jury’s final verdict.

The legal directive on self-defense.

Judge’s Statement

Judge Steven Yim’s instructions appeared to resonate with the jury. They were told that ignoring the key Rocky APP could not guilty verdict was not possible if Rocky’s actions were deemed defensive. This legal guidance played a critical role in their final decision.

The courtroom erupts in cheers.

Rocky’s Reactions

Rocky’s physical and emotional reaction upon hearing the verdict was raw and genuine. From a position of desperation and uncertainty, he was overjoyed, unsure for a moment if he would be released or convicted. His exuberant celebration with his legal team and his wife highlighted the significance of the verdict.

Rihanna supports Rocky during his court appearances.

District Attorney’s Response

District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman released a statement via Instagram, respecting the jury’s decision while emphasizing the office’s commitment to justice and accountability. Hochman praised the dedicated work of his team and reaffirmed the pursuit of justice for victims and the community.