A$AP Rocky's Trial Underway for Felony Assault Charges

Rapper A$AP Rocky, facing two felony assault charges stemming from a 2021 incident involving his former friend A$AP Relli, rejected a plea deal that would have sentenced him to 180 days in jail and probation. The trial began with jury selection in Los Angeles, where the judge emphasized that celebrity status should not influence the proceedings. During the selection process, a lighthearted exchange took place between the judge and Rocky's mother, highlighting the personal aspect of the trial amid serious allegations of gunfire and assault. Prosecutors allege Rocky fired a semiautomatic weapon at Relli during an altercation over unpaid funeral expenses, while Rocky's defense contends that the gun was merely a starter pistol used for security. The trial is expected to last three weeks, and Reverend Al Sharpton has raised concerns about the fairness of the jury pool, which reportedly lacks diversity. A$AP Rocky has maintained his not guilty plea, with the defense asserting that Relli fabricated the incident to extort money from him.