Music mogul and business tycoon Sean “Diddy” Combs has been found guilty on two out of five federal charges after three days and 13 hours of intense jury deliberation, in a high-profile trial that has gripped public attention across the globe.
The verdict, delivered in federal court late Monday, saw the hip-hop legend convicted on two counts under the Mann Act—a law that prohibits the transportation of individuals across state lines for unlawful sexual activity.
Guilty Verdicts:
Count 3: Mann Act transportation of Casandra Ventura (known professionally as Cassie)
Count 5: Mann Act transportation of a former girlfriend referred to as Jane
However, the jury acquitted Combs on three major charges:
Count 1: Racketeering conspiracy
Count 2: Sex trafficking of Casandra Ventura
Count 4: Sex trafficking of Jane
Though he escaped convictions on the more serious sex trafficking and racketeering counts, the two guilty verdicts carry a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years, casting a massive shadow over Combs’ entertainment empire and long-standing reputation.
The charges stemmed from explosive allegations made by his former partners, including R&B singer Cassie, who accused the Bad Boy Records founder of coercive relationships, abuse, and using his influence to exploit women across state lines for personal gain.
Legal experts say the guilty verdict under the Mann Act could significantly impact both Combs’ personal freedom and his business interests, which include fashion, spirits, and media ventures.
Social media has erupted since the news broke, with fans, critics, and fellow celebrities expressing shock and mixed reactions to the outcome. Some are calling it a reckoning, while others say the partial acquittal leaves more questions than answers.
Sentencing is expected to take place in the coming weeks, where prosecutors will push for the maximum penalty.