After weeks of explosive testimony and widespread media scrutiny, the federal jury in United States v. Sean “Diddy” Combs has reached a verdict: guilty on two counts of transporting women across state lines to engage in prostitution, but not guilty on the more serious racketeering and sex trafficking charges. The partial conviction marks a dramatic—and controversial—end to one of the most high-profile celebrity trials in recent memory.
🚨Rapper Lil Rod alleges the jury in Diddy’s case was tampered with, claiming they were paid off, ‘He has money and power’:
“He has gotten way with a lot.. Has money and power. He had two attorneys for their one. I wouldn’t be surprised if the jurists were tampered with.” pic.twitter.com/hd58ozGeE2
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) July 2, 2025
The charges stemmed from a sprawling investigation into alleged criminal conduct spanning more than a decade, with the government accusing Combs of operating what they argued was a sex trafficking ring tied to his music empire. The trial focused heavily on testimony from Cassie Ventura, Combs’ longtime ex-girlfriend, and an unidentified woman referred to only as “Jane.”
The verdict handed down during the trial included:
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GUILTY:
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Transportation to engage in prostitution (Cassie Ventura)
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Transportation to engage in prostitution (“Jane”)
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NOT GUILTY:
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Racketeering conspiracy (RICO)
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Two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion
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Each guilty count carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, meaning Combs could face up to 20 years behind bars when he is sentenced later this year.
The courtroom, packed with media, attorneys, and supporters from both sides, remained tense as the verdict was read. According to Fox News, Combs was seen mouthing “thank God” and “I love you,” possibly toward his family. He appeared relieved—perhaps even stunned—by the mixed outcome. The defense team hugged one another. Combs’ family embraced in silence.
CNN: “People are pouring baby oil on one another outside this courthouse.”
“You have people saying, ‘It’s not RICO, it’s FREAKO.'” pic.twitter.com/ZkwVyu0J5N
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) July 2, 2025
In a surprising moment of levity, the judge commented that Combs “likely wouldn’t want to return” to Brooklyn’s federal detention center. Combs, reportedly without hesitation, agreed.
While the jury did not convict Combs of the headline-grabbing RICO and sex trafficking charges, the guilty verdicts still represent a significant legal and reputational blow. For Cassie Ventura, who filed a civil suit in November 2023 that ignited the federal probe, the partial conviction is being framed as a victory.
“By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice,” her attorney said in a statement. “This case proved that change is long overdue.”
Commenting after the verdict, Donna Rotunno, the former attorney for Harvey Weinstein, argued the case had been “overcharged.”
“They were taking very nuanced relationships and trying to make them criminal,” she told Fox News. “This is a huge loss to the government.”
Her remarks reflect the broader legal community’s reaction: while prosecutors achieved some convictions, the collapse of the RICO and trafficking counts undermines what had been billed as a sweeping takedown of a celebrity crime network.
The U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York issued a statement acknowledging the jury’s decision. While they praised the bravery of the witnesses who came forward, the statement did not signal whether further charges or appeals would be pursued.
🚨Alan Dershowitz slams the federal government for mishandling the Diddy case, saying they overcharged him, which weakened the case. Claims a state charge would’ve taken him down: ⁰
“This is an EMBARRASSMENT for the federal government. They overcharged him. Should have been a… pic.twitter.com/4I0hYr72JB— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) July 2, 2025
