A judge overseeing the trial of A$AP Rocky expects a jury to be chosen on Thursday, as the hip-hop star faces two counts of assault with a semiautomatic firearm for an incident in Hollywood in 2021. Nearly one hundred potential jurors are being questioned in a Los Angeles courtroom, with opening statements set to begin once a jury of 12 and four alternates are seated.
Both the defense and prosecution have the opportunity to dismiss jurors without giving a reason, with the defense using four of its challenges so far. Concerns have been raised about the lack of Black representation in the jury pool, with defense lawyers planning to appeal the judge's decision not to hold a hearing on the matter.
Prosecutors have been questioning potential jurors about their views on law enforcement and celebrities, including asking about their opinions on Rihanna, who is A$AP Rocky's partner. The trial has garnered attention from public figures like Rev. Al Sharpton, who criticized the racial makeup of the jury pool.
A$AP Rocky, who has pleaded not guilty, is currently free on bail. The trial comes after he turned down a plea deal that would have involved jail time and probation. Despite his upcoming music festival performance and film projects, a conviction could have serious consequences for the hip-hop artist.
The trial centers around an altercation with Rocky's former friend, Terell Ephron, who testified about the incident that led to the assault charges. The proceedings continue as jury selection progresses in downtown Los Angeles.
