In a post-trial interview outside the courtroom, Rocky told press and onlookers, “I gotta thank God first. And I really want to thank the jury for making the right decision, you know? I’m just so thankful. This is crazy right now. This whole experience has been crazy for the past four years, but I’m thankful, nonetheless. I’m thankful and blessed to be here as a free man talking to you all.”
Rihanna, who was present in court during most of the weeks-long trial, also reacted to the verdict on her Instagram Story. “The glory belongs to God and God alone! Thankful, humbled by his mercy!” she wrote in all capitals against a dark background, adding a praying hands emoji. Last week, during closing arguments on February 13, Rihanna brought RZA and Riot — the two young sons she shares with Rocky — along with her to court, per People.
Courtesy of Instagram
According to The Guardian, during the trial, A$AP Relli testified that Rocky had fired two shots at him, grazing his knuckles. Rocky’s attorney Joe Tacopina and defense witnesses claimed the shots were blanks from a prop gun the rapper took from a music video set. Per AP, during opening statements, Tacopina claimed Relli reported the incident to law enforcement because that was the only way an attorney would agree to file a civil lawsuit against Rocky.
According to CNN, L.A. County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman reacted to the verdict in a statement, saying: “Our office remains committed to seeking accountability for those who break the law, no matter their status or influence. Fame does not place anyone above the law, and we will not waver in our pursuit of justice for victims and the community.”
