Sean “Diddy” Combs acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering, convicted on prostitution charge

A federal jury on Wednesday acquitted music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking charges but found him guilty on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution.

Sean “Diddy” Combs verdict

The verdict followed three days of deliberations in Manhattan federal court.

Combs, 55, now faces up to 10 years in prison for each count of violating the Mann Act, which prohibits transporting individuals across state lines for illicit sexual activity.

The case

Prosecutors alleged Combs operated a criminal enterprise that used coercion, drugs, and intimidation to control women and orchestrate sex parties. The defense argued that while Combs’ lifestyle was controversial, it did not amount to federal crimes.

The jury rejected the most serious allegations, including claims of sex trafficking involving two women and a broader racketeering conspiracy. However, they found sufficient evidence that Combs arranged interstate travel for paid sexual encounters involving his former partners.

Cassie Ventura and Sean “Diddy” Combs

One of the key figures in the case was singer Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former partner.

In 2023, Ventura filed a civil lawsuit accusing Combs of rape, physical abuse, and sex trafficking during their relationship. The suit was settled just one day later for $20 million.

Although the settlement ended the civil case, Ventura later testified in the federal trial, describing years of alleged abuse and coercion. One of the two counts Combs was convicted on involved Ventura directly.

Combs, who has denied all wrongdoing, remains free on bond. Sentencing is expected later this year.