Music mogul Diddy has been found guilty on the prostitution charges and could face up to 20 years in prison. Diddy, born Sean Combs, was on trial for five charges, three of which he was found not guilty. The verdict, delivered on Wednesday, came after three days of deliberation by a jury of eight men and four women in the Southern District of New York.
Though Combs was acquitted of the more serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, the conviction on two counts related to prostitution still carries significant legal consequences. Each count, involving the transportation of women for sexual acts across state lines, could bring up to 10 years behind bars under the federal Mann Act.
Depending on how the judge decides to sentence him, Diddy could either serve time for both charges at once or back-to-back. If the sentences run together, he faces up to 10 years behind bars. However, if they are served separately, his prison time could double to a maximum of 20 years.
The case centred on disturbing allegations that Combs orchestrated elaborate sexual encounters involving his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and another woman, identified in court as “Jane”. Prosecutors claimed these acts were part of a broader pattern in which Combs used his wealth and influence to manipulate and control women, accusations the defence denied.
During the trial, which lasted nearly a month, the prosecution brought forward 34 witnesses. They painted a picture of a powerful entertainer allegedly engaging in what they described as “freak offs” or “hotel nights”, highly choreographed sexual events that involved both his romantic partners and paid male sex workers.
While the jury did not find enough evidence to convict Combs of building an organised criminal enterprise, they unanimously agreed on his guilt in relation to transporting women for sex acts.
In court, Combs reacted with a mixture of visible relief and quiet gratitude. After hearing the verdict, he lifted his hands in a prayer-like gesture and embraced his lead attorney, Teny Geragos. His mood, much lighter than in previous days, was evident as he smiled toward family members and supporters in the courtroom.