Sean 'Diddy' Combs Found Guilty of Prostitution Charges, Acquitted of Racketeering and Sex Trafficking

By Mavis  Emefa Goka / July 3, 2025

Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was found guilty Tuesday on two federal counts of transporting women across state lines for prostitution but was acquitted of more serious charges including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.

A federal jury in New York delivered a split verdict after nearly a week of deliberations, convicting Combs, 55, of violating the Mann Act in relation to his ex-girlfriend, singer Casandra "Cassie" Ventura, and another woman identified only as “Jane.” Each count carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.

Combs was cleared of four other charges that alleged he led a criminal enterprise involved in sex trafficking, coercion and racketeering. 
The not-guilty verdicts on those counts marked a significant victory for the embattled entertainment mogul, who has denied all wrongdoing.

The jury’s decision came after a high-profile, seven-week trial that included testimony from 34 witnesses, graphic evidence, and explosive allegations that shook the hip-hop industry. 
Prosecutors portrayed Combs as the central figure in a pattern of abuse and exploitation dating back nearly two decades.

In a brief statement outside court, Combs’ attorney, Benjamin Brafman, said the jury “got it right on the major charges” but expressed disappointment with the guilty verdicts. “We will review our options, including a possible appeal,” he said.

Combs, who has been in custody since his arrest last September, faces up to 20 years in prison when sentenced. A date has not yet been set. Prosecutors said they would oppose any effort to release him on bond ahead of sentencing.

A spokesperson for Ventura declined to comment. In a separate civil lawsuit settled last year, she had accused Combs of years of abuse and manipulation—allegations that resurfaced during the criminal trial.

The verdict comes amid mounting scrutiny of Combs’ past conduct. In recent months, he has faced multiple civil lawsuits from former associates and employees, several of whom testified during the trial under subpoena.

While Combs avoided the most severe charges, the conviction still marks a major blow to one of the most influential figures in hip-hop and business. The founder of Bad Boy Records and former Ciroc vodka ambassador, Combs has seen endorsements, partnerships and his public image unravel amid ongoing legal troubles.
Legal experts say the sentencing will depend on whether the court views Combs as a repeat offender or considers mitigating factors, including lack of prior convictions. 

He is expected to appear before Judge Miriam Goldman Cedarbaum for a bond hearing later this week.