Diddy Found Guilty on Prostitution Charges, Acquitted of Sex Trafficking

Sean “Diddy” Combs was found guilty on two counts related to prostitution. However, he was acquitted of the more serious charges in his sex trafficking trial at a federal court in New York City. This outcome marks a significant moment in the music mogul's public downfall, following a trial that exposed details of his personal life.

The guilty verdicts stem from accusations of transporting individuals for the purpose of engaging in prostitution. The trial, which lasted for eight weeks, involved testimony from Combs's former partners, associates, and employees. Their accounts shed light on his private life, including allegations of physical and sexual abuse, drug use, and explicit details about his sexual activities.

The 55-year-old music tycoon was arrested nearly ten months prior to the verdict. Prosecutors accused him of running a criminal enterprise and of abusing, threatening, and coercing victims to fulfill his sexual desires between 2004 and 2024. The counts he was found guilty of carry a potential prison sentence of up to ten years.

During the verdict, Combs reacted with a display of victory. His lawyer requested his release from custody, promising that Combs would not violate the opportunities this verdict has given him. After the judge concluded, Combs turned to his family, knelt, and appeared to pray. His family responded with applause and cheers.

The trial included testimony from Cassie Ventura, who was in an on-off relationship with Combs from 2007 to 2018. She described years of drug-fueled sex marathons and violence she endured. Her testimony also referenced a 2016 video capturing Combs beating her.

Hotel records revealed that Combs often booked suites under pseudonyms. His former assistants recalled setting up hotel rooms with specific items. Over the years, these events took place in various locations. Ventura testified about her fear that Combs would release videos and ruin her music career.

Both Ventura and Jane Doe, a woman Combs dated from 2021 until his arrest in 2024, testified about arranging for male escorts at Combs's request. They described how he would pay the escorts thousands of dollars in cash. Despite text messages showing support for the sex marathons, both women testified about their negative feelings towards these events.

During opening statements, defense attorneys acknowledged Combs's history of domestic abuse but argued that the case was about "love, jealousy, and money." Ventura revealed that she settled her suit against Combs for $20 million. She testified about why she took years to come forward, stating she was there to do the right thing.