A$AP Rocky, whose legal name is Rakim Mayers, is facing trial for allegedly shooting his former friend A$AP Relli at an intersection in Hollywood, California two years ago. Despite the evidence presented by prosecutors, Rocky has pleaded not guilty and is taking the case to a jury. Relli testified at a preliminary hearing that Mayers brandished a gun during a confrontation and then fired after they moved. However, a surveillance video from the alleged shooting intersection did not show an actual shooting, according to Judge M.L. Villar.
Mayers’ lawyer, Joe Tacopina, has claimed that Relli perjured himself and that his client is the victim of a shakedown. The defense also pointed out that no weapons were found in the case and that video evidence was inconclusive. Relli claims that he confronted Mayers about unpaid funeral expenses, and Mayers allegedly responded by pulling out a gun, but denied the shooting allegation. A second civil complaint has been filed against Mayers and Tacopina, alleging defamation.
Mayers, who is also facing a lawsuit brought by Relli, denies the allegations and insists he did not shoot his friend. The case is expected to head to trial, where it will be left in the hands of a jury.