In the world of celebrity romance, A$AP Rocky and Rihanna are causing quite the stir, but not for the reasons one might expect. Ahead of the rapper’s trial for a 2021 shooting, the couple’s relationship status left a judge scratching his head in confusion.
During a pre-trial hearing, Judge Mark S. Arnold tried to get a clear answer on how to refer to Rihanna, as it was relevant for questioning potential jurors. Rocky’s lawyer, Joe Tacopina, confidently called her his ‘common-law wife,’ which sparked immediate objections from the prosecution.
The state attorney argued that since they aren’t legally married, Rihanna should be referred to simply as his significant other or the mother of his children. In response, Judge Arnold sought clarification on whether they were legally wed anywhere but Rocky’s attorney admitted uncertainty about their legal marital status.
Ultimately, the judge decided that Rihanna would only be called A$AP Rocky’s wife if there was legal documentation of their marriage, which didn’t seem to be the case. So, for the sake of court proceedings, she remains his significant other.
In an interesting twist, the prosecution offered Rocky a plea deal to avoid trial by pleading guilty to a lesser charge. Tacopina, however, stated they were not interested in any settlements. Rocky is reportedly feeling confident about his acquittal and is prepared to testify if it comes to that.
Tacopina emphasized Rocky’s desire to share his side of the story, painting a picture of him as a ‘good human being’ who would shine through if he took the stand. Although, no decision has been made yet as it will depend on how the trial progresses.
Outside the courthouse, Tacopina was questioned about Rihanna’s attendance at the trial. While uncertain, he mentioned that Rocky is very protective of her and prefers she stays away from the proceedings. This decision, however, will be a family matter.
The jury selection for this high-profile trial is scheduled for next Tuesday, with the trial expected to last about 15 days. A$AP Rocky faces accusations of shooting A$AP Relli, a former affiliate, during a heated dispute in 2021. If convicted, he could be looking at a hefty 24-year prison sentence.
A$AP Relli, whose real name is Terell Ephron, claimed that tensions rose after Rocky allegedly failed to fulfill a promise to help a grieving family from their group. In a confrontation at a Los Angeles hotel, Relli described that Rocky brought backup, pointed a gun, and even threatened his life.
Relli further testified that Rocky shot him four times, including once in the hand, before making a quick escape. Security footage from nearby parking garages supposedly shows Rocky holding a firearm during the altercation, adding a dramatic twist to the already intense scenario.
As the trial looms, all eyes are on A$AP Rocky and how the relationship debate will impact court proceedings. With heavy accusations on the table and a potential long-term prison sentence, the stakes are undeniably high.
