A$AP Rocky faces a trial in January after allegedly firing a gun at his former friend, A$AP Relli, during a heated argument.
During a Monday preliminary hearing in Los Angeles, Judge M.L. Villar decided there was enough evidence to proceed to trial. The rapper, whose real name is Rakim Mayers, pleaded not guilty to two counts of assault with a firearm in August 2022.
Speaking outside the courthouse, Rocky's lawyer, Joe Tacopina, expressed confidence in Rocky's innocence, saying, "I am certain Rocky will be vindicated of all of this."
Detective Frank Flores testified during the hearing, presenting new surveillance footage. While the footage contained two loud sounds purported to be gunshots, no actual shooting was seen. Flores stated that Rocky had a gun during the altercation, but the weapon was never recovered. Additionally, shell casings found by Relli at the scene had no fingerprints.
The trial is scheduled to begin on Jan. 8. Previously, photos of Relli's minor injuries were shown in court, revealing small patches of raw, bloody skin on his hand.
Legal documents obtained by PEOPLE indicate that Relli filed a civil suit against Rocky in August 2022, alleging assault, battery, and emotional distress.
Rocky, who has two children with pop superstar Rihanna, denied all allegations. In response to the civil complaint, his attorneys stated, "Defendant generally denies each and every allegation." Rocky's lawyers argue that any injuries or damages were caused by other individuals, not Rocky.
Relli, a former member of the hip-hop collective A$AP Mob, claimed to have been injured by bullet fragments during the argument. He sought medical attention at a New York hospital. Testifying in court, Relli recalled a friendship that soured, alleging that tension arose when Rocky achieved solo success and acted differently.
Relli testified that Rocky promised financial support after the death of their friend A$AP Josh but felt betrayed when he believed Rocky did not follow through. Their relationship further deteriorated when Relli overheard disparaging remarks from Rocky. This led Relli to end their friendship, which escalated into the altercation.
Rocky allegedly confronted Relli on a Hollywood street, leading to a confrontation where Relli claimed Rocky pulled out a gun and threatened him. Relli alleged that Rocky fired shots, prompting Relli to use another person as a shield.
Rocky was arrested in April 2022 at Los Angeles International Airport and was released on bail the same day. Police searched his home for evidence related to the case. Relli has filed a civil lawsuit seeking damages.
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