Content Warning: This report contains descriptions of alleged events that some readers may find disturbing.
Sean “Diddy” Combs’ high-profile federal criminal trial for charges including racketeering and sex trafficking is nearing its dramatic conclusion in New York City. In a strategic move just before closing arguments, prosecutors revealed they are simplifying their case by dropping specific allegations, particularly those related to attempted kidnapping, attempted arson, and aiding and abetting sex trafficking under the sprawling racketeering count. This decision, outlined in a court filing, aims to streamline the complex instructions the judge will provide the jury before deliberations begin.
Combs, 55, who has pleaded not guilty to five federal counts, faces serious charges stemming from a superseding indictment that accuses him of leveraging his “multi-faceted business empire” into a “criminal enterprise” engaged in illicit activities. Federal raids on his properties in Los Angeles and Miami in March 2024 were part of the investigation that led to his arrest in September 2024.
Key Racketeering Claims Withdrawn
In a filing ahead of the trial’s final phase, government attorneys informed Judge Arun Subramanian they are formally withdrawing specific theories of liability that underpinned parts of the racketeering conspiracy charge. These withdrawn claims include allegations that Combs engaged in racketeering through:
Attempted kidnapping (in California and New York)
Attempted arson (in California)
Aiding and abetting sex trafficking
Prosecutors stated the move was made “to streamline” the complex instructions the judge will give jurors before they deliberate. This strategic decision appears to address challenges raised by the defense regarding the strength of evidence for these particular allegations presented during the trial. For instance, the attempted kidnapping claims reportedly related to alleged incidents involving former employee Capricorn Clark and ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, while the attempted arson claim was linked to allegations surrounding the firebombing of rapper Kid Cudi’s car. Defense attorneys had previously argued the government lacked sufficient evidence directly linking Combs to these specific alleged incidents.
However, it’s crucial to note that this withdrawal does not mean the primary federal charges – including racketeering conspiracy itself, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution – have been dropped. The superseding indictment still alleges Combs’ alleged criminal enterprise engaged in completed acts of kidnapping and arson as predicate acts for racketeering, alongside the forced labor and direct sex trafficking allegations that prosecutors are now focusing the RICO charge around for the jury.
A Month of Graphic Testimony and Evidence
Over nearly seven weeks, the prosecution presented its extensive case through dozens of witnesses, including former partners like Casandra “Cassie” Ventura Fine and “Jane,” as well as past employees and associates such as Danity Kane alum Dawn Richard and former assistant Capricorn Clark. Testimony has included harrowing accounts of alleged abuse, control, and graphic descriptions of events.
Prosecutors focused heavily on evidence related to alleged “freak off” sex parties, presenting video footage, text messages, financial records, and audio messages. They argued that Combs and his employees were directly involved in organizing these elaborate sexual performances, allegedly involving escorts and Combs’ partners, sometimes using supplies like over 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant reportedly found during raids, and allegedly distributing drugs to maintain control over individuals. Evidence presented included audio messages from Combs reportedly demanding supplies like baby oil, Cialis, and money for these events.
Debate Over Jury Instructions
A key point of debate during the charging conference this week centered on precisely how the judge will instruct the jury regarding the complexities of the sex trafficking allegations. Prosecutors argued strongly that it’s crucial for jurors to understand that sex trafficking can occur even without* a completed commercial sex act or physical restraint. They cited an incident allegedly captured on hotel security footage where Combs is seen dragging Ventura Fine, arguing this could demonstrate sex trafficking regardless of whether a sexual act followed.
Prosecutors have also requested instructions clarifying that prior consent to sexual acts or receiving compensation does not necessarily negate a finding of coercion or forced labor in the context of sex trafficking, consistent with existing law. The defense objected, arguing such instructions would unfairly prejudice Combs given the prosecution’s previous focus, but the judge reportedly leaned towards the prosecution’s view on this matter, reserving final judgment.
Defense Rests Swiftly, Combs Declines to Testify
In stark contrast to the prosecution’s extensive case, Combs’ defense team rested after less than 30 minutes, opting not to call any witnesses. While the defense hasn’t publicly stated their full reasoning, legal experts note that defendants are not required to present evidence, and the burden of proof rests solely with the prosecution to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense’s arguments have reportedly focused on presenting evidence challenging the prosecution’s narrative, including highlighting romantic and sometimes explicit text messages between Combs and Ventura Fine. Immediately after resting, the defense moved for a judgment of acquittal, arguing the government failed to prove the counts, particularly emphasizing a perceived lack of evidence that employees believed Combs was sex trafficking.
For his part, Sean Combs verbally confirmed to the court that he would not be taking the stand, stating the decision was “solely” his after thorough discussion with his legal team. This was one of the few times Combs spoke out loud during the weekslong trial.
Other Notable Trial Details
Throughout the trial, witness testimony has revealed other significant allegations. Former assistant Capricorn Clark testified she was allegedly held against her will for five days, threatened, and subjected to polygraph tests after jewelry went missing. Another former assistant, identified as “Mia,” testified she witnessed Combs allegedly physically assault Cassie Ventura Fine at a movie premiere in 2012.
Celebrity names have also frequently surfaced in testimony. Beyond Kid Cudi, others mentioned included Rihanna, Beyoncé, Britney Spears, Usher, and Michael B. Jordan. Cassie Ventura testified Combs suspected she was in a relationship with Jordan after their 2015 breakup. Testimony also touched upon Combs’ alleged feud with rapper 50 Cent, who is reportedly producing a docuseries about the allegations.
While Combs’ legal fate is decided in court, his current status remains confined. He has been in custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn since his September 2024 arrest and has remained confined despite attempts at bail. Forbes has estimated his net worth has dropped significantly since 2019.
Closing Arguments and Deliberations Loom
With both sides having rested their cases and jury instructions being finalized after discussions with Judge Subramanian, the trial is set to move into closing arguments. Attorneys for both the prosecution and defense estimate their arguments will take approximately four hours each. Closing arguments are expected to begin Thursday, June 26, and may extend into Friday, June 27. Following these final presentations and the judge’s detailed instructions, the jury will be sent into deliberation to reach a verdict. As of now, no verdict has been reached in the case that has captivated and disturbed many. The trial is not being televised, as cameras are typically not allowed in federal criminal proceedings.