A$AP Rocky refuses to testify in felony assault trial
A$AP Rocky has decided not to take the stand in his defence in his felony firearm assault trial, in which he’s accused of firing a gun at his former friend, A$AP Relli (real name Terell Ephron). The Harlem rapper waived his right to testify in the final phase of his trial on February 11th.
In a Los Angeles court, Judge Mark Arnold laid out the option of testifying, which would involve the possibility of cross-examination.
“You have a right to get on the stand and give your side of the case,” the judge said in court, according to Rolling Stone. “Also, you have a right under the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution not to testify. You cannot be compelled to testify. It’s totally your decision to either get on the stand or waive your right to testify.”
After speaking with his lawyer, Joe Tacopina, Rocky said, “I want my right to not testify,” while seated at the defence table. When asked if he knew what was at stake if he didn’t take the stand, Rocky informed the judge, “I do, in fact.”
Rocky previously rejected a plea deal that involved three years probation, a seven-year suspended prison sentence and 180 days in county jail. Ahead of the trial, Tacopina claimed Rocky was open to testifying.
“From our side, we have no interest in a settlement,” he said at the time. “My client has indicated he’s not willing to take anything. 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.”
He continued, “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 how the case goes.”
In August 2022, Rocky pled not guilty to two felony counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm and faces up to 24 years in prison if convicted. The judge announced that closing arguments will begin on February 13th.