Legally analyzing A$AP Rocky’s trial for felony assault with a semiautomatic firearm requires examining the key elements of the prosecution’s and defense’s arguments. Here’s a breakdown:

Legal Analysis of the Case

1. Elements of the Crime

A$AP Rocky is charged with two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm under California law (Penal Code 245(b)). To secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove:

• Rocky intentionally discharged a real firearm.
• The act was not in self-defense.
• The firing resulted in actual or potential harm.

If the prosecution cannot prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Rocky used a real gun (as opposed to a prop or blank-firing gun), or if the evidence is too weak, the charges may not hold up.

2. Prosecution’s Case

• The prosecutor, Paul Przelomiec, argues that the core issue is whether the gun was real or fake, asserting that Rocky deliberately fired a real weapon.
• There is no physical firearm presented in evidence.
• A$AP Relli (the alleged victim) testified that he was grazed by a bullet, but the defense argues the injury was merely “knuckle scrapes.”
• The prosecution claims Rocky’s witnesses, including A$AP Twelvyy, were coached and unreliable.
• They assert that Relli’s lawsuit does not negate his victimhood and that he is simply seeking justice.

3. Defense’s Case

• Defense attorney Joe Tacopina argues that the weapon in question was a prop gun that fired blanks, taken from the set of Rocky’s music video “DMB”.
• Witnesses, including A$AP Twelvyy, testified that everyone knew it was a prop gun and that it was only fired as a warning.
• The defense points out that there is no bullet evidence, no recovered gun, and no proof that a real firearm was used.
• Relli’s credibility is attacked, with Tacopina calling him a “pathological liar” who committed perjury multiple times.
• The defense highlights that Relli demanded millions from Rocky in recorded calls, implying financial motivation for his claims.

Key Legal Issues

1. Lack of Physical Evidence: The absence of a firearm, spent shells, or conclusive ballistic evidence weakens the prosecution’s case.
2. Conflicting Testimonies: Relli claims a real gun was fired, while Rocky’s associates claim it was a prop. This creates reasonable doubt.
3. Surveillance Video Uncertainty: The footage is blurry and open to interpretation, rather than conclusively proving Rocky’s guilt.
4. Financial Motive of the Accuser: Relli’s lawsuit and demand for millions could be seen as a reason to fabricate or exaggerate his claims.
5. Juror Influence by Rocky’s Family Presence: Prosecutors raised concerns about Rihanna and their children being present in court, potentially swaying the jury emotionally.

Who is More Likely to Win?

• Defense Likely to Prevail: The prosecution’s case is circumstantial and lacks direct evidence of a real gun being fired. The defense has raised substantial reasonable doubt, which is all they need to secure an acquittal.
• Weakness in the Prosecution’s Case: Without a gun, bullet evidence, or medical proof of a gunshot wound, the case may be too weak to convict.
• Possible Lesser Conviction? While the jury may reject the felony charge, they could still consider a lesser charge (e.g., reckless endangerment) if they believe Rocky fired a gun—real or fake—in a way that endangered others.

Conclusion

A$AP Rocky’s defense has presented enough doubt to make a conviction on felony assault with a semiautomatic firearm unlikely. If the jury follows the legal standard of beyond a reasonable doubt, Rocky is more likely to be acquitted. However, if the jury is emotionally swayed by Relli’s testimony, Rocky could face a conviction or a reduced charge.