Jurors have begun deliberations in the high-profile Diddy trafficking case, where music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs faces charges that could send him to prison for life. The trial lasted seven weeks and featured emotional and sometimes graphic testimony from dozens of witnesses. Before deliberations started, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian delivered final legal instructions to the panel of eight men and four women.
Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to racketeering conspiracy, two sex trafficking counts involving former girlfriends, and two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution. Prosecutors allege he orchestrated drug-fueled sex events dubbed “freak-offs” or “hotel nights” that exploited and harmed women.
During closing arguments, both legal teams presented sharp contrasts. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik told the jury that Combs “used power, violence and fear to get what he wanted.” She argued that his fame and money made him believe he was above the law. In response, defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo said, “This isn’t about crime. It’s about money.” He noted that one accuser had already filed a civil lawsuit seeking financial damages.
The prosecution called 34 witnesses. Testimony from Combs’ former partners, including singer Cassie (born Casandra Ventura) and a woman known only as “Jane,” dominated the proceedings. They both claimed Combs physically abused them and forced them into sexual acts with male sex workers. According to their accounts, these incidents happened repeatedly over several years.
Jurors also reviewed visual evidence. One key video showed Combs beating, kicking, and dragging Cassie in a Los Angeles hotel in 2016. Other clips allegedly showed sexual encounters central to the prosecution’s case.
Combs did not testify in his defense. His lawyers also called no witnesses. Instead, they tried to undermine the credibility of the accusers during cross-examinations. They admitted that Combs acted violently at times but insisted the sex acts were consensual. According to the defense, prosecutors crossed a line by invading Combs’ private life without legal grounds.
Now, the outcome of the Diddy trafficking case rests with the jury. Their verdict will decide whether the Bad Boy Records founder walks free or faces decades behind bars. The case has drawn widespread media attention and continues to spark public debate about power, celebrity, and abuse.
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