In a move that left many scratching their heads—perhaps even questioning their grasp of common sense—A$AP Rocky has turned down a plea deal that would’ve significantly reduced his potential jail time. I mean, who wouldn’t want to trade just 180 days in jail and three years of probation for the daunting prospect of up to 24 years behind bars? Rocky’s attorney, Joe Tacopia, declared that his client is standing firm on his claim of innocence, saying he “would only have taken a plea deal if he was actually guilty”—bold words indeed! But it’s not just the rapper’s fate on the line; Deputy District Attorney John Lewin thinks Rocky missed a golden opportunity and even advised the family to reconsider their options in court. And amidst this legal whirlwind, let’s not forget that Rocky’s been trying to drop his long-awaited album while navigating these turbulent waters—you know, just a typical day in the life of a celebrity. So, what gives? Is he banking on proving his innocence, or has he just got an odd sense of timing? Grab your popcorn, folks, because this courtroom drama is just getting started!
A$AP Rocky shocked many when he rejected a plea deal on Tuesday. The rapper is facing two felony charges relating to a 2021 shooting incident. Rocky was offered 180 days in jail and only three years probation, according to ABC. This did not interest him, however. The rapper’s attorney told the outlet that he would only have taken a plea deal if he was actually “guilty” of the crimes he’s being accused of. “Yes, he was offered a plea deal but is not interested because he is actually innocent,” explained lawyer Joe Tacopia.
The prosecution feels differently. A$AP Rocky’s trial continued on Wednesday, and the prosecution made it clear that they gave the rapper an excellent plea deal. Deputy District Attorney John Lewin was so convinced of this, in fact, that he addressed A$AP Rocky’s family in court. Reporter Meghann Cuniff reported that Lewin told Rocky’s mother and sister he should have taken the deal. The rapper is facing 24 years behind bars if convicted. By comparison, 180 days in jail is a major victory. Lewin also told the rapper’s family to consider his career momentum.
“I just hope that he’s evaluating everything,” Lewin told A$AP Rocky’s family. The exchange reportedly took place while prospective jurors were on a break, and out of the courtroom. A$AP Rocky’s lawyer has not responded to Lewin’s comments. He has, however, maintained confidence in the fact that his client will be found innocent. Tacopia also mentioned family in his statement to reporters. “I’m confident in knowing that he will be vindicated,” the lawyer explained. “You know, this is a burden for him and his family, his two young children. And he’s ready. He’s ready to face this head on.”
A$AP Rocky has been trying to rollout an album amidst his legal troubles. The rapper has been teasing the release of DON’T BE DUMB since 2018, which was coincidently the last year he dropped an album. Rocky has released multiple singles over the last several months. He’s blamed the album’s delay on an array of issues, however, including sample clearances and leaks. A$AP Rocky has assured fans that the album will come out in 2025.