Diddy found guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution

Sean “Diddy” Combs, the renowned hip-hop mogul, has been found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, but has avoided the three most serious charges, including two counts of sex trafficking and one count of racketeering. The charges carry a maximum sentence of 10 years each, meaning Combs could face up to 20 years in prison.

Despite the potential severity of the charges, the mood among Combs' defense team was celebratory. The verdict was split, and Combs appeared visibly relieved after the jury announced the decision. He pumped his fist and mouthed “thank you” to the jurors, shaking hands with his attorneys and applauding as his family looked on. As they left the courthouse, Combs’ children smiled as a crowd cheered, chanting “Freedom! Freedom!”

The defense is now pushing for Combs' release before sentencing, proposing a $1 million bond. However, federal prosecutors argue that the conviction is serious enough to warrant detention, citing potential risks in allowing him to remain free. The judge has yet to make a ruling on this request.

The verdict follows an intense eight-week trial that saw 34 witnesses testify against Combs. He was accused of coercing multiple women into participating in "freak-offs" — drug-fueled sex parties with male escorts, which he allegedly flew across state lines. The defense argued that the men were paid for their time and that the encounters were consensual, while the prosecution dismissed these claims, emphasizing that the cash exchanged was for sex, not conversation.

One of the trial's most intense moments came during testimony from Combs' ex-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura. She accused him of physical and psychological abuse over the course of their 11-year relationship. Photos of her injuries and videos from the “freak-offs” were shown to the jury. Ventura later filed a lawsuit against Combs in November 2023, which spurred federal investigations.

In a particularly damning accusation, another anonymous witness, “Jane,” claimed Combs used her drug dependency and rent payments as leverage to force her into participating in sex acts with escorts. Combs was also accused of violent behavior towards several women, including physical assaults and sexual violence.

The defense acknowledged Combs’ violent actions but argued that the alleged offenses were unrelated to the “freak-off” parties. Combs’ legal team denied the racketeering charge, suggesting that his staff and assistants were unaware of any criminal activity related to his personal behavior.

The trial, which included several high-profile allegations, painted Combs as the leader of a criminal enterprise, using his position to manipulate others into illegal activities. The defense, however, insisted that Combs was merely engaged in a consensual “swingers lifestyle.” The case continues to unfold as the defense prepares for sentencing discussions.