Diddy Juror Denies That Celebrity Status Influenced Verdict: ‘We Would Have Treated Any Defendant in the Same Manner’
A juror in the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is opening up about the decision-making process behind Wednesday’s verdict, when the disgraced rap mogul was convicted of illegal prostitution but acquitted of sex-trafficking and racketeering charges.
Speaking to ABC News on Thursday (July 3), the juror, who requested anonymity citing concerns of potential online abuse and cyber harassment, said they heard a legal pundit today suggest that Combs’ celebrity status may have influenced the jury’s decision, an idea that the juror slammed as “highly insulting and belittling to the jury and the deliberation process.”
“We spent over two days deliberating. Our decision was based solely on the evidence presented and how the law is stated,” the juror told the outlet. “We would have treated any defendant in the same manner regardless of who they are. I have nothing else to say.”
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian denied Combs’ request for bail and ruled that he will have to remain in jail, where he’s been since his arrest 10 months ago, until a sentencing hearing later this year. Judge Subramanian said his history of domestic violence still makes him a danger to society despite his acquittal on the more serious charges. The judge proposed a sentencing date of Oct. 3 but also set a remote hearing for Tuesday, July 8 to further discuss the sentence scheduling.
Aubrey O’Day and Kesha both recently showed support for Cassie, who took the stand for several days during the seven-week trial. Meanwhile, 50 Cent, Combs’ son King, Funkmaster Flex and more also weighed in on the verdict.
Heran Mamo
Billboard
