A federal jury has delivered a mixed verdict in the high-profile criminal trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, acquitting him of the most serious charges — including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking — but convicting him on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.
The 55-year-old entertainer now faces a potential sentence of up to 20 years in prison, with each count carrying a maximum of 10 years. Had he been found guilty of the more severe charges, Combs could have faced life imprisonment.
The verdict was delivered in a packed courtroom, where Combs showed a range of emotions. After bowing his head in apparent prayer, he rose, turned to the gallery, and clapped in gratitude. Family members and friends erupted into applause, many visibly emotional.
His defense team embraced one another, while Combs expressed his love and thanks to his family from the defendant’s bench.
Defense attorneys are now seeking Combs’ release from custody as he awaits sentencing, arguing that he poses no flight risk.
Lead defense counsel Marc Agnifilo urged the court to release him under strict conditions, emphasizing that Combs has no access to private travel and that multiple family members are willing to sign a bond to guarantee his appearance.
Agnifilo told the court that Combs “treasures the opportunity” to remain free while awaiting sentencing and assured the judge that his client would adhere to all imposed conditions. “Mr. Combs has been given his life by this jury,” Agnifilo said, referencing the avoided life sentence.
However, federal prosecutors strongly opposed the request. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey cited what she described as clear evidence of ongoing abuse and illegal activity, including drug use, even after Combs knew he was under investigation.
The prosecution argued that Combs continues to be a danger and shows disregard for the law, vowing to push for a significant term of incarceration.
Judge Arun Subramanian has not yet ruled on Combs’ potential release. He has instructed both legal teams to submit formal arguments by 1 p.m. Eastern Time before making a decision.
The trial, which captivated the public with disturbing allegations and high-profile testimony, originated from a wave of accusations first brought to light by singer Cassie Ventura in a civil lawsuit in 2023. ,
Her attorney, Doug Wigdor, commended her for the courage to speak out, stating that while Combs was not convicted of sex trafficking her, her actions helped pave the way for the current verdict.
“Cassie Ventura’s bravery sparked a movement that challenged the culture of silence around abuse in the entertainment industry,” Wigdor stated.
Judge Subramanian closed proceedings by thanking the jurors for their service, describing their commitment during the complex and emotionally charged trial as a “tremendous sacrifice.”
With sentencing yet to be scheduled, Combs’ legal battle is far from over. While he avoided the most severe penalties, the looming prospect of two decades behind bars now defines the next phase of his legal journey.
