Sean “Diddy” Combs was convicted of transportation to engage in prostitution but was acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges.
He faced allegations of physical and sexual abuse from two former girlfriends during the trial.
The big picture: Combs could face a maximum sentence of 10 years on each of the prostitution counts. The sentencing will be determined by U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian at a later date.
- The acquittals on the sex trafficking charges meant that Combs avoided a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and the possibility of life in prison if convicted.
Driving the news: Prosecutors accused Combs of using his business empire for two decades to force his romantic partners into drug-fueled sexual performances with male sex workers, dubbed “Freak Offs,” while he watched, masturbated, and sometimes filmed.
- Authorities found drugs and a significant amount of baby oil and lubricant in Combs’ homes during raids that were used in these performances, according to prosecutors.
- The defense team acknowledged Combs’ violent tendencies in his relationships but argued that the sexual activities mentioned were consensual despite the coercion allegations.
- The trial provided insight into Combs’ business operations and his tumultuous relationships with his former girlfriend Casandra “Cassie” Ventura and another woman identified as Jane.
- Ventura initially sued Combs for sex trafficking, leading to a settlement of $20 million. The trial featured surveillance footage of Combs physically attacking Ventura in a hotel hallway.
- Jane also testified about an alleged attack by Combs and being coerced into performing sexual acts despite her objections, leading to further accusations of coercion and abuse.
- Jurors heard from Combs’ former assistants about the setup of hotel rooms for these “Freak Offs” and purchasing drugs for him. There was also testimony about payment to bury evidence of his attack on Ventura.
Go deeper: Prosecutors argued that these actions were part of a racketeering conspiracy orchestrated by Combs to maintain control over his victims and conceal his abusive behavior.
- Defense lawyers maintained that Combs engaged in domestic violence but refuted claims of sex trafficking, asserting that Ventura and Jane had willingly participated in the sexual activities.
- Combs has been held in federal lockup since his 2024 arrest. The defense emphasized his success as an entrepreneur and claimed that his personal and professional lives were distinct entities.
