Diddy Found Not Guilty of Sex Trafficking & Racketeering, But Guilty of Prostitution Charge | Billboard News
Diddy’s trial has reached a verdict and he has been found not guilty on the charges of sex trafficking and racketeering, but was found guilty of transporting sex workers for “freak-offs.” Keep watching for the full story.
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Tetris Kelly:
A verdict has been reached in Diddy’s trial as he has been convicted of illegal prostitution but defeated more serious sex trafficking and racketeering charges. We have all the details. A jury in New York federal court deliberated for just over two days before finding Sean Combs guilty of transporting sex workers across state lines for days-long hotel parties called “freak-offs.” He was found not guilty of sex trafficking and racketeering.
It’s a legal victory for the fallen rap mogul, since he would have faced a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum term of life behind bars if found guilty on all charges. His conviction carries no mandatory minimum and a maximum sentence of 20 years. The jury was not convinced beyond a reasonable doubt that Combs committed sex trafficking by forcing women to participate in the freak-offs or that the rapper and his underlings operated a criminal enterprise.
Diddy’s ex Cassie Ventura was active in the trial, and her lawyer has issued a statement saying:
“Although the jury did not find Combs guilty of sex trafficking, [Cassie] paved the way for a jury to find him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution. By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice.”
Combs’ reps did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Katie Cao
Billboard