Jury Deliberation
What was the outcome of the case for Rakim and Rihanna, and what was Alan Jackson's reaction to it?
The case resulted in a favorable verdict for Rakim and Rihanna, which the defense attorney Alan Jackson described as 'the right verdict.' The jury's decision came quickly, vindicating his clients who he believes were victims of extortion attempts despite their innocence. Jackson expressed deep personal connection to the case, describing Rakim as 'one of my closest friends' and both clients as 'the greatest people.' He became emotional during his summation because of his genuine care for them, calling the day of the verdict 'one of the happiest days of my life.' Jackson felt honored to represent them, emphasizing they truly deserved this positive outcome after their unwarranted hardships.
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ABC News
00:37 - 01:06
How did the jury respond in A$AP Rocky's case?
The jury delivered a swift and just verdict in A$AP Rocky's case, quickly seeing through the complexities presented during the trial. According to the defense attorney, they came to an 'enormously quick and speedy verdict,' which the legal team described as 'the right verdict.' A$AP Rocky's legal representatives expressed profound gratitude to the jury for their understanding and efficiency in reaching their decision. The defense team's statement reflects their satisfaction with the outcome and appreciation for the jury's discernment in this high-profile case.
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ABC News
00:33 - 00:39
Why did A$AP Rocky reject a plea deal in his court case?
A$AP Rocky rejected a plea deal that would have resulted in almost no jail time because he maintained his innocence from day one. His lawyer emphasized that this was a matter of principle and justice, as Rocky refused to plead guilty to something he didn't do, despite being offered favorable terms. This decision highlights Rocky's commitment to clearing his name rather than accepting an expedient resolution that would have implied guilt. The jury's quick verdict ultimately vindicated his stance, seeing through what his defense team characterized as an extortion attempt disguised as a legal case.
Watch clip answer (00:12m)ABC News
00:00 - 00:12
What did A$AP Rocky's lawyer claim about the nature of the case after his client was found innocent?
A$AP Rocky's lawyer characterized the case as an extortion scheme that was dramatically exposed during the court proceedings. He emphasized that he had consistently maintained this position throughout the legal process, stating 'I've always said this was an extortion. The extortion played out live in color in court.' Following the jury's verdict of innocence, the lawyer called for the district attorney to investigate and potentially prosecute Tyrell Efron based on admissions made during the trial. The statement reflects the defense team's view that their client was the target of an orchestrated attempt at extortion rather than a legitimate legal case.
Watch clip answer (00:13m)ABC News
00:13 - 00:26
What was the outcome of A$AP Rocky's felony assault trial?
A$AP Rocky (Rakim Myers) was found not guilty in his felony trial for assault with a semi-automatic firearm. The jury reached this verdict after only three hours of deliberation, dismissing allegations from 2021 that he had fired a gun at a former friend. The rapper had claimed during his defense that it was merely a prop gun that caused no real harm. The courtroom witnessed a dramatic reaction as Rocky celebrated the verdict with his partner Rihanna. This outcome was particularly significant as he had been facing a potential prison sentence of up to 24 years if convicted.
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NBC News
02:02 - 02:05
What was the key issue the jury had to decide in A$AP Rocky's felony trial?
The central issue in A$AP Rocky's trial was whether the weapon in question was a real firearm or a prop gun. A$AP Rocky claimed it was a fake prop he had picked up for a music video, with only blanks being fired. After just three hours of deliberation, the jury of seven women and five men unanimously found him not guilty on two counts of assault with a semi-automatic firearm. The jury had to determine if the gun was real and, if so, whether Rocky acted in self-defense, ultimately deciding in the rapper's favor.
Watch clip answer (00:38m)NBC News
01:22 - 02:01