The verdict has been delivered in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ trial, where he faced accusations of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and facilitating prostitution.
Once a prominent figure in the rap industry, the 55-year-old spent nearly two months on trial and had been in federal custody at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center since September 2024 due to the charges against him.
Combs consistently denied any wrongdoing.
After closing arguments from both the prosecution and defense, the jury began deliberations on June 30. They were tasked with determining whether Combs’ alleged intoxication negated intent or if he acted with intent despite being under the influence.
Ultimately, Combs was found guilty of two transportation-related prostitution charges, but he was acquitted of two sex trafficking charges and the racketeering conspiracy charge.
The allegations against Combs included charges of racketeering conspiracy along with two charges each of sex trafficking and facilitating prostitution.
The racketeering accusations involved claims of coercing women into sexual acts, often involving violence and firearms.
The five counts against him included these elements. He was found guilty on two counts and acquitted of the others.
Combs was taken into custody at the Park Hyatt hotel in Manhattan on September 16, 2024, following a grand jury indictment.
His attorney, Marc Agnifilo, emphasized Combs’ cooperation with authorities and his voluntary travel to New York in anticipation of the indictment.
Agnifilo stated, “These are the actions of an innocent man with nothing to hide, and he looks forward to clearing his name in court.”
Ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura provided testimony regarding Combs’ drug-fueled parties, alleging he would watch and masturbate during her forced interactions with male escorts.
Following a confrontation at Kid Cudi’s residence, Combs’ former assistant, Capricorn Clark, recounted an incident where Combs allegedly assaulted Cassie.
A male escort, Sharay Hayes, known as ‘The Punisher’, testified about encounters involving Cassie and Combs.
During raids on Combs’ residences in Miami and Los Angeles, authorities discovered numerous bottles of baby oil and lubricant, alongside a large cache of ketamine and firearms.
In his closing argument, Agnifilo characterized the charges as overblown, suggesting Combs had supported those around him, including an ex-partner identified as Jane.
“I don’t know what Jane is doing today, but she’s doing it in a house he’s paying for,” Agnifilo noted, referencing Combs’ financial support for her living expenses and legal costs.
He argued, “This isn’t about crime. It’s about money. This is about money,” urging the jury to acquit Combs of all charges.
The prosecution rested their case within a short period on June 24, while the defense took five hours for their closing on June 27.