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In a federal criminal trial, a jury delivered a mixed verdict for Sean "Diddy" Combs on Wednesday (July 2). The jury found him guilty on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but acquitted him of the more severe charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. If convicted on all charges, Combs, 55, could have faced a life sentence. Instead, he now faces up to 10 years in prison.
The trial revolved around allegations that Combs coerced women into sexual encounters with other men, referred to as "Freak Offs." Despite the serious nature of the accusations, the jury found insufficient evidence to convict him on the racketeering and sex trafficking charges. As the verdict was read, Combs was present in the courtroom, accompanied by his family, including his mother and sister.
Combs' defense team, which includes attorneys Jason Driscoll, Nicole Westmoreland, Alexandra Shapiro, and Marc Agnifilo, met with him privately before the verdict was announced. The trial, which has drawn significant media attention, concluded with the jury's decision after they deliberated and sent a note to the judge confirming their unanimous verdict.
The case against Combs has been closely watched, and the verdict marks a significant moment in the legal proceedings against the hip-hop mogul. The sentencing will determine the exact length of Combs' prison term.