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A$AP Rocky Declines Plea Deal in Alleged Shooting Case. Rapper Could Face Up To 24 Years in Prison.

A$AP Rocky has rejected a plea deal in his Hollywood assault case.

According to Rolling Stone, the rapper’s trial, which relates to a 2021 shooting incident involving him and A$AP Relli, began on Tuesday, January 21.

Prosecutors had offered Rocky a chance for a quicker resolution with a plea that would include three years of probation and a seven-year suspended sentence, meaning he would only serve 180 days in jail. However, the Harlem rapper, whose real name is Rakim Athelaston Mayers, declined the plea, pleading not guilty to a charge of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. As a result, if convicted, Rocky could face up to 24 years in prison. Reportedly, he told the court, “I respectfully decline, thank you,” maintaining confidence in his innocence.

Rocky’s legal team, led by attorney Joe Tacopina, argued that the firearm in question was not a real weapon, but a “starter pistol.” This claim came as a surprise to the prosecution, who said they only learned about the “fake gun” defense on the eve of the trial. The prosecution had previously presented a video showing Rocky allegedly wielding a 9mm handgun at a probable cause hearing in 2023, with no mention of a prop weapon.

It’s still unclear who Tacopina will call as witnesses, but he has indicated that Rocky is eager to testify on his own behalf. “Well, Nancy, you know I would never make a decision like that before trial—it would be malpractice,” Tacopina said. “That being said, [A$AP Rocky] is eager to tell his story and would love the opportunity to do so.”

Tacopina further described Rocky as “very articulate and intelligent” and stated that his character would shine through if he takes the stand. However, Tacopina added that the decision to have Rocky testify will depend on how the case unfolds.

Currently, A$AP Rocky’s trial is in the jury selection phase.

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