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NEW YORK CITY — A federal jury acquitted Sean “Diddy” Combs on the most serious charges against him Tuesday, finding him not guilty of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion. However, jurors convicted him on two lesser felony counts related to prostitution.
The split verdict followed a seven-week trial and three days of deliberation. Combs, 55, now faces up to 20 years in prison. He has denied all criminal allegations.
Jury Clears Sean Diddy Combs on Most Serious Charges
Prosecutors alleged that Combs led a criminal enterprise to sexually exploit women over the course of two decades. They claimed he used money, influence, and fear to manipulate victims and control his inner circle.
Nearly 30 witnesses took the stand, including former employees and three women who accused Combs of abuse. Some testified under immunity agreements.
Among them was R&B singer Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former partner, who described being coerced into drug-fueled group sex acts—referred to as “freak offs”—and subjected to repeated abuse. Another woman, identified as “Jane,” recounted similar experiences.
The jury viewed a 2016 surveillance video showing Combs physically assaulting Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel hallway. Prosecutors cited the footage as evidence of a pattern of control and violence.
Jurors ultimately found the government had not proven the racketeering conspiracy or trafficking charges beyond a reasonable doubt. These charges required evidence of force or coercion and coordination between Combs and others to commit criminal acts.
Defense Denies Conspiracy, Admits Flaws
Combs’ legal team argued the prosecution exaggerated the facts. Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo said the relationships were consensual and not criminal. He acknowledged episodes of domestic violence but denied the existence of any coordinated enterprise.
“This was not racketeering,” Agnifilo said during closing arguments. “It was a flawed relationship.”
Combs did not testify during the trial. His attorneys called no witnesses, relying instead on cross-examinations to challenge the prosecution’s case.
The two convictions involved Combs’ role in transporting individuals across state lines for commercial sex. Prosecutors said these actions, though not involving force, still violated federal law. Jurors agreed, returning guilty verdicts on both counts.
Sentencing and Civil Cases Still Ahead
Sean Diddy Combs has remained in federal custody since his arrest in late 2024. He is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
Beyond the criminal case, Combs faces several civil lawsuits, including claims of rape and sexual assault. He has denied the allegations and filed motions to dismiss.
Though the trial was not televised, public interest remained high throughout the proceedings. Combs’ family members attended regularly, and media coverage focused on both the legal arguments and cultural implications.
The verdict ends one chapter of Combs’ legal troubles but leaves several questions unresolved. As the court prepares to sentence him, ongoing civil litigation may continue to shape the public and legal response.