Sean Combs, also known as P. Diddy, is facing serious charges in a sex trafficking trial. The jury will begin deliberating on Monday after listening to closing arguments from both the prosecution and defense.
The government claims that Combs coerced his ex-girlfriends into having sex with male escorts during marathon sessions. Prosecutors presented evidence of an assault on singer Cassie (Cassandra Ventura) at a Los Angeles hotel in 2016, as well as testimony from a woman who said she repeatedly refused to engage in sex with Combs but was persuaded by his lawyers.
However, the defense argues that these women are willing participants in their alleged encounters. They claim that Cassie’s sessions were consensual and even romantic, featuring fine food and music by popular artists.
Combs is charged with multiple counts of racketeering conspiracy, transportation for prostitution, and forced labor. Prosecutors also presented evidence of witness tampering and bribery allegations against him, including payments to a former assistant to ensure her silence.
The defense countered that the government’s claims are exaggerated and lack credibility. They argued that the investigation into Combs was unfair and that many of the seized items found at his homes were innocent products unrelated to any wrongdoing.
As closing arguments came to an end, the jury will now deliberate on Monday to decide whether Combs is guilty of these serious charges or not.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/28/arts/music/sean-combs-diddy-trial-closing-arguments.html