Sean "Diddy" Combs Trial: Jury Reaches Partial Verdict, Deadlocked on Racketeering Charge

A federal jury in New York has delivered a partial verdict in the high-profile trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, finding him guilty on multiple serious charges related to sex trafficking. However, the jury remains deadlocked on the central racketeering conspiracy charge, which prosecutors argue is the backbone of the alleged criminal enterprise.

After two days of deliberations, the jury unanimously convicted Combs on two counts of sex trafficking and two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution. These charges stem from testimony by multiple witnesses who described being coerced or manipulated into sexual acts at private gatherings allegedly orchestrated by Combs and his associates. The prosecution argued that these events were part of a wider pattern of exploitation and abuse facilitated by Combs’ wealth, influence, and control over his victims.

Jurors reported they could not reach a consensus on the fifth and most serious count: racketeering conspiracy under the RICO Act. This charge would require proof that Combs led or participated in a criminal organization that engaged in a pattern of illegal conduct—including sex trafficking, coercion, and drug distribution—for financial or personal gain. The jury indicated that despite extensive deliberation, it was divided beyond reconciliation on this count.

U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian instructed the panel to continue deliberating, urging jurors to review the evidence carefully and attempt to reach a unanimous decision. The jury is expected to reconvene on Wednesday, July 3, at 9 a.m. EDT to resume their discussions.

Throughout the trial, prosecutors presented testimony from former romantic partners and employees of Combs who described a culture of control, fear, and sexual coercion. Key witnesses included two women—both former intimate partners of Combs—who testified that he physically abused them, forced them to participate in what they called “Freak Offs” (private sex parties), and threatened them with financial ruin or the release of compromising footage if they attempted to leave or speak out.

The prosecution argued that Combs used his celebrity status, financial power, and surveillance measures to manipulate, intimidate, and isolate his victims. They cited documented travel records, bank transactions, and text messages as supporting evidence.

Combs, now 55, pleaded not guilty to all charges and maintained through his legal team that all sexual encounters were consensual and part of a private, albeit unconventional, lifestyle. His defense acknowledged that Combs had engaged in volatile relationships but denied any criminal conduct or organized enterprise. They also challenged the credibility of witnesses, suggesting they had financial motives or were exaggerating past grievances.

If found guilty of the remaining racketeering conspiracy charge, Combs could face a life sentence. The sex trafficking convictions already carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.

This case marks one of the most significant criminal prosecutions of a major entertainment industry figure in recent years. The trial has drawn widespread media attention and reignited public discussions around power dynamics, abuse, and accountability in the music business.

The court has not yet scheduled a sentencing hearing, pending the jury’s final verdict on the racketeering charge.

Sources: Reuters, CNN, BBC, New York Daily News, New York Post.