Terell Ephron, also known as A$AP Relli, returned to the Los Angeles courthouse on Friday to continue his testimony in the trial of A$AP Rocky, who is accused of firing a handgun at him during a 2021 incident on a Hollywood street.
Relli Cross-Examined Over Alleged 2021 Shooting
The defense, led by attorney Joe Tacopina, focused on inconsistencies in Relli’s statements over the years as they sought to challenge the credibility of his allegations. On Thursday, Relli admitted that some aspects of his story had changed since the alleged incident, but he maintained that the core details remained true. “A gun was pulled on me. It was pointed at me, and it was fired later,” Relli testified. “It’s been three years. If he was innocent, he would be home a long time ago.”
Defense Points to Inconsistent Testimony
The defense team highlighted discrepancies between Relli’s courtroom testimony and a 2022 interview with prosecutors. During the trial, Relli claimed that the gun was pointed at his stomach and head but did not physically touch him. However, Tacopina confronted him with prior statements in which he said the gun had been pressed into his stomach and that he couldn’t recall exactly what Rocky had said during the confrontation. Superior Court Judge Mark Arnold addressed the jury’s exposure to Relli’s emotionally charged remarks. After Relli testified on Thursday, Arnold informed the jury that they would be instructed to disregard part of his statement, specifically where Relli implied Rocky’s guilt.
Rihanna Attends Trial for the Second Day
Adding to the public attention surrounding the case, pop superstar Rihanna, who is A$AP Rocky’s partner, was present in the courtroom for the second consecutive day. Her attendance has drawn media interest as the high-profile trial continues. Relli described the confrontation as a frightening encounter that escalated quickly. He testified that Rocky threatened to kill him while brandishing a firearm, though he admitted that his recollection of specific details had become hazy over time. The trial centers on Relli’s claim that A$AP Rocky, a former friend and fellow member of the A$AP Mob collective, intentionally aimed and discharged a gun during a heated argument in 2021. Rocky has denied the allegations, and the defense is working to establish that the inconsistencies in Relli’s statements cast doubt on his version of events.
What’s Next in the Trial?
As cross-examination continues, the defense is expected to further scrutinize Relli’s memory and statements to undermine the prosecution’s case. The outcome of the trial could have significant legal and personal implications for both Rocky and Relli. Meanwhile, the trial remains a focal point of public attention due to its high-profile nature and the involvement of prominent figures in the entertainment industry.