After a seven-week trial and three days of jury deliberations, a federal jury in Manhattan delivered a split verdict on the Diddy Sex Trafficking Trial.
The music mogul was acquitted of the most serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. Had he been convicted, he would have been facing a life sentence. He was found guilty, however, on two misdemeanor counts of "transportation to engage in prostitution" with one count being linked to his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and another to a woman identified as "Jane." These convictions fall under the 1910 Mann Act, each carrying up to 10 years in prison.
Jurors took about 13 hours over three days to sort through five charges, returning partial verdicts on July 1 and the final judgment on July 2. As the verdicts were read, Combs pumped his fist in celebration at the acquittals, then closed his eyes in prayer over the guilty counts
What's Next?
Combs remains in custody pending a 5pm bail hearing, after his lawyers requested release on $1 million bond following the partial acquittals .
If convicted, each prostitution transportation count could result in up to 10 years in prison, totaling a potential maximum sentence of 20 years.
Legal analysts suggest Diddy may receive minimal prison time or even time served, given the lesser nature of the convictions.
