not guilty verdict
What was the outcome of A$AP Rocky's trial for the 2021 firearms incident?
A$AP Rocky, whose real name is Rakim Myers, was found not guilty of felony assault charges related to a 2021 incident where he allegedly fired a gun at a former friend. The verdict, which was delivered after jury deliberation, cleared him of charges that could have resulted in up to 24 years in prison. The dramatic courtroom moment showed the rapper emotionally jumping to hug someone when the verdict was read. His longtime partner, pop star Rihanna, was present in the courtroom to support him during this pivotal moment of the trial.
Watch clip answer (00:41m)
NBC News
00:09 - 00:51
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
What was the verdict in Rakim Meyers' trial?
The jury in Rakim Meyers' case delivered a not guilty verdict for all charges brought against the defendant. During the formal announcement in court, the jury foreman clearly stated their finding that Meyers was not guilty of the allegations presented during the trial proceedings. This verdict marks the conclusion of the legal process for Meyers, effectively clearing him of all charges including those potentially related to automatic firearms and felony violations that were mentioned in the case. The jury's decision represents the culmination of their deliberative process and their fulfillment of their civic duty within the American justice system.
Watch clip answer (00:08m)
ABC News
00:13 - 00:21