Reverend Al Sharpton has voiced serious concerns over the racial imbalance in jury selection for A$AP Rocky’s ongoing trial. Sharpton took to X, formerly known as Twitter, on January 22, to highlight the underrepresentation of Black individuals among potential jurors, calling it a stark example of systemic inequity.
“It is absolutely ridiculous that the jury will be not fair and representative, so as to deprive A$AP Rocky of a fair trial,” Sharpton stated. “When we have four (4) Black people in the city of Los Angeles, out of one hundred and six (106) — and exactly zero (0) within the first thirty (30) possible candidates for the jury — something appears to be very wrong with the system.”
Al Sharpton Questions Fair Representation
Sharpton emphasized that the issue is not about the specifics of the trial but the broader implications of a racially unbalanced jury. He asserted that Rocky, born Rakim Mayers, deserves to be judged fairly by a jury of his peers, as guaranteed by the Constitution. The Civil Rights leader also urged the Los Angeles District Attorney’s office to ensure the rapper’s trial meets the standards of fair justice.
The case stems from a 2021 shooting incident involving Terell Ephron, known as A$AP Relli. Rocky has pleaded not guilty to charges of assault with a semiautomatic firearm. His lawyer, Joe Tacopina, stated that Rocky “is eager to tell his story.” According to police reports, an argument escalated into gunfire, leaving Ephron with minor injuries. Tacopina claims the weapon seen in surveillance footage was a “starter pistol” prop used for security purposes.
A Potentially Long Road Ahead
Jury selection for the trial is expected to take 15 days. If convicted, Rocky could face up to 24 years in prison. The remarks made by Sharpton amplify growing scrutiny of racial disparities in the criminal justice system, particularly in high-profile cases.
“I am monitoring this trial and challenging the Los Angeles District Attorney to ensure that fair and representative justice is afforded to A$AP Rocky,” Sharpton reiterated.