Diddy Sex Trafficking Trial Nears End: Lawyers Abandon ‘Iran’ Defense
The highly-watched sex trafficking trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is rapidly heading towards its conclusion in a Manhattan courtroom, with closing arguments set to begin. As the court moves closer to a potential verdict as early as next week, Combs’ legal team has confirmed they will not pursue a controversial defense strategy that reportedly involved referencing international politics.
Earlier reports from TMZ had suggested that Combs’ lawyers were considering introducing the conflict with Iran during their closing arguments. According to sources, the proposed argument aimed to portray the case against Combs as potentially “instigated by Homeland Security Investigations” (HSI) and suggest that the agency’s resources would be better focused on significant national security threats like the escalating tensions with Iran, rather than the allegations against Combs, which one report characterized as relating to “what Diddy is doing with baby oil and lube.”
However, during preparations for summations, prosecutor Maurene Comey raised a strong objection to the defense potentially bringing up politics, arguments about the use of government resources, or questioning the propriety of the prosecution itself. In response to the judge, Combs’ lead counsel, Marc Agnifilo, provided assurance, stating unequivocally, “Nothing to worry about,” indicating that Iran or other current affairs would not be mentioned.
Trial Context and Legal Strategies
The agreement not to inject international politics into the closing arguments comes as the trial shifts into its final phase. The prosecution spent over six weeks presenting their case, calling 34 witnesses to the stand over 30 days. Their extensive evidence included footage, documents, photos, videos, bank statements, phone records, and emails. Key witnesses like Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, a former assistant referred to as “Mia,” and another ex-girlfriend known as “Jane” testified in detail, alleging physical and verbal abuse, coercive control, sexual assault, and being pressured into participating in drug-fueled sexual encounters, sometimes involving male escorts, described as “freak offs.” The prosecution’s core argument centers on accusations that Combs sex-trafficked women by coercing them, transported male escorts for prostitution, and conspired with a “criminal enterprise.”
In stark contrast, Combs’ defense presented their case in less than an hour, opting not to call any witnesses. Their strategy has been to vehemently dispute the allegations, arguing that while Combs’ personal life may have been “unusual,” all actions were consensual. They presented evidence, including text messages between Combs and his accusers, which they argued showed a “loving side” and demonstrated willingness to participate in encounters.
The defense also filed a motion for acquittal (Rule 29 motion), arguing the government had failed to present sufficient evidence for the charges, particularly the racketeering conspiracy count and the claim that Combs sex-trafficked Cassie Ventura. They contended there was no proof others conspired with Combs for the racketeering charge and no messages showing Ventura unwillingly participated. The judge has reserved a decision on this motion.
Notably, Sean Combs confirmed to the judge that he would not testify in his own defense, stating it was “totally” his decision made after consulting with his legal team.
Charges and Potential Outcome
Combs is currently facing multiple felony charges, including sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, transportation to engage in prostitution, and racketeering conspiracy. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges brought by the prosecution.
With closing arguments now underway, the jury is expected to deliberate soon, with a verdict anticipated before July 4. If convicted on all counts, Combs could face a potential life sentence behind bars. The dropped ‘Iran’ defense strategy highlights the various complex and sometimes unconventional legal maneuvers that have surfaced throughout this high-profile trial.
