A$AP Rocky’s pre-trial for his alleged role in a 2021 shooting took an unexpected turn when a judge found himself confused over the rapper’s marital status with Rihanna.
During a hearing on Wednesday (Jan. 16), Judge Mark S. Arnold sought clarification on how to refer to the global superstar when addressing potential jurors. Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopina, responded, “She’s his common-law wife, your Honor. Or just ‘wife,’” prompting an objection from prosecution.
A prosecutor countered, “If they’re not legally married, we prefer that she not be referred to as his wife and that she is just referred to as his significant other or mother of his children.” However, the judge pressed for confirmation, asking if the couple was legally married anywhere. Tacopina admitted, “I don’t know, but she’s certainly his common-law wife.”
Ultimately, Judge Arnold ruled that Rihanna could only be referred to as Rocky’s wife if they were legally wed—something that, as of now, does not appear to be the case. Despite widespread marriage speculations about their longstanding relationship, the “Fashion Killa” couple has not confirmed if they have legally tied the knot.
“If they are not legally married, she is his significant other,” the judge concluded.
Aside from the relationship confusion, it was also revealed by Rolling Stone that prosecutors had offered the Harlemite a last-minute plea deal, which would have allowed him to plead guilty to a lesser charge and avoid trial. However, Tacopina made it clear that his client has no intentions in settling.
“From our side, we have no interest in a settlement. My client has indicated he’s not willing to take anything,” the attorney stated in court. “But obviously, I will listen to anything, any offer. And I have an obligation and a duty to relay it to my client, which I will do.”
Following the hearing, Tacopina expressed confidence in Rocky’s chances of acquittal, revealing that the rapper is ready to testify if necessary. “He’s eager to tell his story. He would love the opportunity to do so. He’s a good human being, and that would come out if he testifies. But that’s a decision that has not been made yet. It depends on how the case goes.”
When asked whether Rihanna would attend the trial, Tacopina remained uncertain. “I don’t know. That’s a family decision,” he told legal affairs journalist Meghann Cuniff. “He’s very protective of Rihanna and doesn’t want her anywhere near this proceeding. But that’s a family decision they’ll make.”
ASAP Rocky and Rihanna are seen leaving Carbone restaurant after celebrating his birthday on October 3, 2023 in New York, New York.
Reportedly, jury selection begins on Tuesday (Jan. 21) and is expected to last about 15 days.
Rocky faces up to 24 years if convicted for allegedly shooting A$AP Mob affiliate, A$AP Relli né Terell Ephron, in 2021. According to Relli, tensions flared after Rocky allegedly failed to follow through on a promise to help the family of a deceased A$AP Mob member. During a meeting at a Los Angeles hotel in November 2021, Relli claimed Rocky arrived with multiple men, pointed a gun at his stomach, and said, “I’ll kill you right now.”
Relli further alleges that Rocky fired four shots at him, one of which struck his hand, before fleeing the scene. Surveillance footage from nearby parking garages reportedly shows the rapper brandishing a firearm before running away.
As the anticipation for the trial rises, take a look at the judge questioning Rocky’s relationship with Rihanna above.
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