Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Found Guilty of Prostitution-Related Charges, Exonerated on Sex Trafficking Allegations
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been found guilty of prostitution-related offenses, although he was acquitted of more serious charges. This came as a setback to prosecutors who had hoped for a conviction on racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges.
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Combs was convicted of transportation to engage in prostitution but was cleared of racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking—a partial victory for the former billionaire who has significantly influenced hip-hop culture in America.
The verdict followed a high-profile trial where two of Combs’ former girlfriends testified to allegations of physical and sexual abuse. The stakes are high; Combs could face a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for each of the two prostitution counts. US District Judge Arun Subramanian is set to determine his sentencing at a later date.
“Not bad,” commented defense attorney Marc Agnifilo, reflecting on the mixed outcome after the verdict was read.
After the jury was dismissed, Combs knelt by his chair in what appeared to be a moment of prayer. Rising to face the courtroom, he remarked with a smile, “I’m gonna be home soon. I love you. Thank you, I love you.” This declaration drew applause and cheers from his family and supporters. Following the verdict, Agnifilo requested bail for Combs, but prosecutors opposed this request. Judge Subramanian asked both sides to present written arguments by 5 PM Irish time regarding Combs’ release.
Prosecutors allege that for two decades, Combs has wielded his extensive business empire to coerce two romantic partners into engaging in drug-fueled, prolonged sexual performances known as “Freak Offs,” which included male sex workers in hotel rooms where he would observe, reportedly filming the activities.
Authorities discovered not only drugs but also an astonishing 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant in raids of Combs’ homes, intended for these performances. Combs, 55, has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to the five counts against him.
A courtroom sketch from yesterday captures Combs and his legal team reacting to the jury’s announcement of verdicts on four counts.
Combs’ attorneys acknowledged that the founder of Bad Boy Records, once celebrated for his extravagant parties among the cultural elite, has exhibited violence in some of his relationships. However, they asserted that the sexual encounters described by the prosecutors were consensual.
The seven-week trial, held in Manhattan federal court, provided the jury with insight into Combs’ complex personal relationships, particularly with rhythm and blues singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, and a witness identified by the pseudonym Jane.
Ms. Ventura filed a lawsuit against Combs in November 2023, claiming sex trafficking, one of many civil suits alleging abuse. Combs later settled with her for $20 million, consistently denying any wrongdoing.
During the trial, jurors saw disturbing surveillance footage from 2016 showing Combs allegedly kicking and dragging Ms. Ventura down a hotel hallway as she attempted to leave a “Freak Off.” Jane later testified about a similar incident where Combs allegedly attacked her and coerced her into sexual acts despite her refusal.
Prosecutors argued that physical violence was one of the tools Combs employed to compel both women to participate in the performances. They framed this manipulation as a form of sex trafficking since the male escorts involved were paid. “The defendant used power, violence, and fear to achieve his desires,” stated prosecutor Christy Slavik during her closing arguments. “He doesn’t take no for an answer.”
Defense attorneys contended that while Combs may have engaged in domestic violence, such actions did not legally equate to sex trafficking. They claimed that Ms. Ventura and Jane were strong, independent individuals who willingly participated in the experiences to please him.
In their testimonies, both women mentioned that their involvement persisted despite instances of violence. The defense suggested that their subsequent claims were motivated by jealousy over Combs’ relationships with other women. “If he was charged with domestic violence, we wouldn’t all be here,” Agnifilo argued. “He did not do the things he’s charged with.”
In addition to Ms. Ventura and Jane, jurors heard from Combs’ former personal assistants, who testified about their roles in facilitating the arrangements for these illicit performances. A security guard from the InterContinental hotel revealed that Combs allegedly offered him $100,000 for what he believed was a critical piece of evidence—a surveillance tape of Combs’ alleged abuse of Ms. Ventura. Additionally, rapper Kid Cudi testified that Combs might have been involved in arson against his vehicle upon discovering his romantic involvement with Ms. Ventura.
According to prosecutors, these activities were part of a broader racketeering conspiracy aimed not only at facilitating abuse but also at silencing potential evidence of wrongdoing. The defense maintained that Combs was a successful entrepreneur who casually used drugs but distinctly separated his professional and personal lives.
Combs has been held in federal custody in Brooklyn since his arrest in September 2024.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.