A$AP Rocky and Rihanna’s relationship status left a judge puzzled during a pre-trial hearing on Wednesday (January 16). The hearing was part of Rocky’s upcoming trial for his alleged role in a 2021 shooting.
Judge Mark S. Arnold wanted to clarify how to refer to Rihanna, as her name might come up during jury selection. When asked, Rocky’s lawyer, Joe Tacopina, responded: “She’s his common-law wife, your Honor. Or just ‘wife.’” However, this sparked an objection from the prosecution.
A state lawyer argued: “If they’re not legally married, we prefer she not be referred to as his wife, but as his significant other or the mother of his children.”
Judge Arnold sought further clarification, asking, “Are they legally married anywhere?” Tacopina admitted he wasn’t sure but reiterated his belief that Rihanna was Rocky’s common-law wife. Ultimately, the judge ruled Rihanna would only be called Rocky’s wife if they are legally married, which doesn’t appear to be the case. “If they are not legally married, she is his significant other,” Arnold decided.
Last-Minute Plea Deal Rejected
During the hearing, prosecutors revealed they had offered A$AP Rocky a plea deal, allowing him to plead guilty to a lesser charge and avoid trial. However, Tacopina told the judge that Rocky declined the offer. “From our side, we have no interest in a settlement. My client has indicated he’s not willing to take anything,” he said, adding that he would relay any offers to Rocky as part of his duty.
After the hearing, Tacopina stated that Rocky is confident in his innocence and ready to testify if needed. “He’s eager to tell his story. He’s a good human being, and that would come out if he testifies,” he told Rolling Stone.
When asked if Rihanna might attend the trial, Tacopina said: “I don’t know. That’s a family decision. He’s very protective of Rihanna and doesn’t want her anywhere near this proceeding. But that’s something they’ll decide together.”
The Charges Against A$AP Rocky
Jury selection for the trial begins Tuesday, January 21, and the trial is expected to last around 15 days. Rocky faces up to 24 years in prison if convicted.
The charges stem from an alleged incident involving A$AP Relli (real name Terell Ephron), a former A$AP Mob member. According to Relli, tensions arose after Rocky reportedly promised to help the family of a deceased A$AP Mob member but failed to follow through.
In November 2021, during a meeting at a Los Angeles hotel, Relli claims Rocky arrived with several men, pointed a gun at his stomach, and threatened, “I’ll kill you right now.” Shortly after, Relli alleges Rocky shot him four times, including once in the hand, before fleeing.
Security footage from nearby parking garages reportedly shows Rocky holding a gun during the altercation.
As the trial approaches, Rocky’s legal team remains confident in his defense, while the case continues to draw public and media attention.
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