July 2, 2025 – Manhattan Federal Court
After a seven-week trial filled with explosive testimony and intense cross-examinations, a federal jury rendered a split verdict in the high-profile case against Sean “Diddy” Combs.
⚖️ Guilty on Two Counts – Transportation for Prostitution
The jury found Combs guilty on two counts related to transporting individuals—including former partners—to engage in prostitution, in violation of the federal Mann Act. Each count carries a maximum of 10 years in prison .
✅ Acquitted on the More Serious Allegations
He was acquitted on the three most severe charges: racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking—charges that could have resulted in life sentences or 15+ year mandatory minimums .
📷 What the Trial Revealed
The prosecution laid out a harrowing narrative involving “freak-off” sex parties—allegedly drug-fueled events featuring paid escorts at Combs’s behest, witnessed by Casandra “Cassie” Ventura and another woman known as “Jane.” Surveillance footage, including a 2016 incident in Los Angeles, was critical in bolstering the accusations .
Defense attorneys argued all encounters were consensual, characterizing Combs’ relationships as complicated but not criminal .
👥 Jury Sentiment and Process
Deliberations took three days, with jurors initially unable to reach a verdict on racketeering . The verdict on all counts except racketeering was unanimous .
💔 Diddy’s Courtroom Moment
After the verdict, a subdued Combs knelt briefly in prayer. Later, he stood to hug his lawyer, smiled, and said, “I’m gonna be home soon—I love you, thank you.” Family and supporters cheered as he exited under marshal’s custody .
🕰️ What’s Next? Sentencing
Combs faces a maximum of 20 years (10 per conviction); exact sentencing date and duration are pending before Judge Arun Subramanian . Still held since his September 2024 arrest, he remains in federal custody. His legal team has requested bail pending sentencing, but the judge has yet to decide ().
🧩 Broader Legal Landscape
The verdict marks only one chapter in a broader saga: Combs still faces 30+ civil lawsuits, including claims by Cassie Ventura that resulted in a $20 million settlement, alongside other allegations of sexual misconduct stretching back decades .
📰 Final Thoughts
This partial verdict sends shockwaves through both legal circles and pop culture. Diddy has escaped the most severe penalties but is still on track to face substantial prison time. With sentencing looming and civil claims still pending, the final reckoning for the mogul may yet be far from over.
Shane higdon 