Diddy trial updates: Closing arguments near in Sean Combs' sex-crimes case
This story contains graphic descriptions that some readers may find disturbing.
Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal fate hangs in the balance as the music mogul's landmark criminal trial nears a close.
After more than a month of harrowing testimony from several individuals in Combs' personal and professional orbit — from ex-girlfriends Casandra "Cassie" Ventura Fine and "Jane" to Danity Kane alum Dawn Richard and rap peer Kid Cudi — prosecutors rested their case in the sweeping federal sex-crimes proceeding on June 24.
In their final round of arguments, attorneys for the U.S. government zeroed in on graphic evidence from Combs' alleged "freak off" sex parties, which included video footage, text messages and financial records. Prosecutors painted a picture of Combs and his employees being personally involved with organizing the elaborate sexual performances, working with escorts, Combs' partners and others.
Meanwhile, Combs' attorneys rested their case in less than half an hour, with the defense opting not to call any witnesses to the stand. Their arguments mainly focused on romantic — and occasionally explicit — texts between Combs and Ventura Fine.
Although Combs' alleged abuse is at the center of the trial, the Grammy-winning rapper told the court he would not be testifying. Judge Arun Subramanian asked Combs' lead lawyer Marc Agnifilo if he spoke with his client about his right to testify, and Agnifilo said they discussed it at length.
Combs, 55, was arrested in September and charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty.
Take a look back at some of the biggest moments from the trial, as well as where Combs' case stands.
Diddy on trial newsletter: Step inside the courtroom as music mogul faces sex-crimes charges.
What is Diddy charged with?
Combs is facing federal sex-crimes and trafficking charges in a sprawling case that has eroded his status as a power player and kingmaker in the entertainment industry.
He was arrested in September 2024 and later charged with racketeering, sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution. The rapper has pleaded not guilty to the five counts against him.
Discover WITNESS: Access our exclusive collection of true crime stories, podcasts, videos and more
What is a RICO? Racketeering meaning
Racketeering is the participation in an illegal scheme under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Statute, or RICO, as a way for the U.S. government to prosecute organizations that contribute to criminal activity.
Using RICO law, which is typically aimed at targeting multi-person criminal organizations, prosecutors allege that Combs coerced victims, some of whom they say were sex workers, through intimidation and narcotics to participate in "freak offs" — sometimes dayslong sex performances that federal prosecutors allege they have on video.
How to stream the Diddy trial
The trial will not be televised, as cameras are typically not allowed in federal criminal trial proceedings.
USA TODAY will be reporting live from the courtroom. Sign up for our newsletter for more updates.
Contributing: USA TODAY staff
If you are a survivor of sexual assault, RAINN offers support through the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 800.656.HOPE (4673) and Hotline.RAINN.org and en Español RAINN.org/es.
If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233 or text "START" to 88788.
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