Kaylah Walton
Sean “Diddy” Combs has opted out of giving testimony in his ongoing federal trial concerning charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and other related offenses, as it nears the final phase before jury deliberations, expected to commence next week.
Now in its sixth week in the federal court of Manhattan, the trial pertains to accusations against Combs of coordinating lengthy “freakoff” sex events with former partners, including his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. He faces allegations of leveraging his influence and financially compensating those involved to maintain silence.
Several women, including Cassie and another participant referred to as “Jane,” have recounted experiences of coercion and abuse. Despite these allegations, Diddy has pleaded not guilty and is anticipated to forgo testifying.
An insider confirmed to People: “Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs will refrain from testifying during his ongoing federal trial concerning sex trafficking, which is expected to conclude before the Fourth of July.”
Deliberate decision regarding testimony
Legal analysts believe that Combs’ choice is a strategic move. A former prosecutor mentioned to People that while the prosecution’s case is compelling, it “might still lack sufficient evidence for a conviction,” particularly in establishing the components of a racketeering scheme.
Furthermore, defense attorney Marc Agnifilo informed Judge Subramanian that the defense would take only two to five days, indicating a focused defense strategy that avoids putting Combs through cross-examination.
A judge has indicated that jury deliberations could commence as soon as next week, which will be a pivotal moment in the trial. With one juror excused, and the panel consisting of eight men and four women, the impact of closing arguments will be especially significant.
Analysts warn that cross-examination may lead Combs into a “flood of difficulties,” with inquiries not only related to trafficking allegations but also to accusations of violent behavior and past assault incidents—an exposure that legal expert Lisa Bonner remarked makes testifying “unlikely” and potentially harmful if past controversies resurface.
Overview of the trial and media coverage
Since May 5, jurors have been given insights into Combs’ business practices and personal relationships. The government introduced explicit videos from 2012-2014 that are claimed to document “freak-offs,” in which Combs allegedly facilitated multi-party sexual encounters with individuals who were paid.
Cassie Ventura provided compelling testimony regarding an 11-year relationship characterized by his alleged manipulative behavior. Another assistant, identified as “Mia,” testified about the recurring abuse she experienced while employed by Combs between 2009 and 2017.
Despite emotional witness statements, some legal experts suggest that the prosecution needs to bolster its claims that Combs led a criminal organization rather than merely acting alone. A former Assistant U.S. Attorney noted to People: “Their case presentation took too much time—possibly nudging the jury towards an acquittal.”
However, if the jury deems the allegations of forced labor or intimidation credible, a conviction could result in a life sentence. Concurrently, Suge Knight has expressed opinions from prison, urging for Combs to be held accountable, stating, “Never disrespect a woman in such a manner.”
As the defense stage unfolds, the anticipation for closing arguments grows—impacting the strategy of whether limiting Combs’ testimony effectively protects him or raises further inquiries. His legal team aims to question witness credibility and emphasize contradictions in testimonies and motives for financial gain. With jury deliberations on the horizon, Combs’ fate now lies in the hands of the jurors.
