A$AP Rocky was charged with two felony counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm, stemming from a November 2021 incident in which a former friend accused him of shooting at him in Hollywood, grazing his knuckles. However, the rapper was recently acquitted of all charges and found not guilty.

Rocky’s Emotional Courtroom Reaction Goes Viral

A video of his acquittal, capturing his raw and unfiltered reaction, has gone viral on social media. In the clip, after hearing the “not guilty” verdict, A$AP Rocky dove from the defense table into the arms of his lady love, Rihanna. The couple’s celebration was a heartfelt moment, knowing that Rocky had just avoided a potential 24-year prison sentence.

Rocky and Rihanna React to the Verdict

Following the verdict, Rocky shared his gratitude as he left the courtroom on February 18: "Thank y'all for saving my life." He also addressed reporters outside the courthouse, reflecting on the past four years: "This whole experience has been crazy. I'm thankful, and it’s blessed to be here right now as a free man talking to y'all." Rihanna, equally relieved and overjoyed by the acquittal of the father of her two children, took to social media to express her feelings. She wrote on her Instagram Story: "THE GLORY BELONGS TO GOD AND GOD ALONE! THANKFUL, HUMBLED BY HIS MERCY."

Rocky’s lawyer, Joe Tacopina, later revealed in an interview with Extra that the couple even joked about naming their next child after him.

Hip-Hop Community Celebrates Rocky’s Legal Victory

Rocky’s acquittal was met with celebration from many prominent rappers in the industry.

50 Cent, who had previously predicted Rocky’s win and even claimed he would bet $500,000 on it, reacted on Instagram:"Not Guilty. I told [ninja]’s I would bet 500,000 K he gonna beat it when ASAP Tellie started getting tired of telling 5 days straight BOOM Now stay sucker free."

Nicki Minaj also showed her support by posting a picture of Rocky, Rihanna, and their sons, Riot and RZA, on Instagram with the caption:"To God Be The Glory."Even the ever-controversial Ye (Kanye West) reacted, sharing a black-and-white photo of Rocky in the courtroom, accompanied by a praying hands emoji.

Public Reaction: Support and Skepticism

Despite the wave of support from fellow artists, public opinion on Rocky’s acquittal remains divided. While many fans found his dramatic, WWE-worthy embrace with Rihanna endearing, others questioned whether his reaction was that of a man who truly got away with a crime. Regardless of the mixed responses, A$AP Rocky walks free, with his legal battle now behind him and the unwavering support of his family and peers.