The music mogul was found guilty on two counts of transportation for prostitution, but he was not convicted on sex trafficking and racketeering charges.
Combs, 55, faced federal charges including sex trafficking and racketeering, which were part of a complex legal case involving his former relationships and alleged illicit activities.
The charges stemmed from accusations that Combs used his power to coerce women, including his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, into participating in "Freak Offs," elaborate sex parties with male escorts.
Prosecutors presented testimony from 34 witnesses, including Ventura, who described incidents of abuse, coercion, and detailed the nature of the "Freak Offs."
According to media reports, Combs' defense team, led by attorney Marc Agnifilo, countered these claims, arguing that the sexual encounters were consensual and that the prosecution had exaggerated the case.
The defense introduced text messages between Combs and Ventura to support their claim of a loving, consensual relationship.
Agnifilo also portrayed Ventura's relationship with Combs as a "great modern love story," distancing the charges from any real criminal wrongdoing.
Despite the defense's efforts, Combs was convicted on the lesser charges of transporting two women for prostitution.
However, he was acquitted of the more serious charges of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and the associated crimes of kidnapping, arson, and bribery. These charges, had they resulted in a conviction, could have led to a 20-year prison sentence or more.
The trial lasted nearly two months, and the jury's verdict, delivered on July 2, 2025, marked a significant moment in Combs' legal battles.
With the acquittals, Combs avoided the life sentence that had loomed over him, but he now faces up to 10 years in prison for the charges on which he was convicted.
Throughout the trial, Combs' legal team depicted Combs as a victim of false accusations, particularly regarding the alleged abuse and forced participation in the "Freak Offs," a term used by Combs to describe the sex parties.
The outcome of the trial provides some relief for Combs, whose reputation has been severely impacted by the charges and his time spent behind bars leading up to the trial.
IGIHE
Source : https://en.igihe.com/entertainment/article/diddy-cleared-of-major-charges-in-sex-trafficking-trial
