‘Diddy’ acquitted of most serious charges, convicted of prostitution-related offences

Hip-hop icon Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted in Manhattan federal court on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, of felony human trafficking and conspiracy charges that could have sent him to prison for life. However, a jury found him guilty of prostitution-related charges that could still carry a prison sentence, but he could be released on bail.

The verdict marked the end of a controversial and high-profile case that shattered “Puff Daddy”’s public image and derailed his career as a Grammy-winning singer, record executive, fashion designer and television personality.

As the jury foreman announced the acquittal on the main charges, Combs clenched his fists and began to pray. After each juror voted, Kames hugged his defense attorney, Teni Gragos. His family and supporters in the courtroom were also overjoyed, shouting “Yes!” despite the judge’s warning to remain silent.

After the verdict was announced, Didi, 55, repeatedly raised her right fist in satisfaction and knelt in her chair, her face filled with prayer. “I’ll be home soon. I love you. I love you, Mom,” she told her family.

Finally, Kames left the courtroom to the applause of her family and attorneys, some of whom were in tears.

Charges and Trial

Comes was acquitted of human trafficking and conspiracy to operate a forced sex ring, but was convicted of violating the Mann Act, which makes it a crime to transport people for sex across states. According to the evidence, he transported people, including his girlfriends and male sex workers, to different cities for sex.

The jury of eight men and four women found him not guilty on the conspiracy charge. Prosecutors alleged that Comes used his wealth, power and abusive behavior to coerce women into participating in drug-fueled parties and sex. But his defense attorneys said the relationships were consensual and the charges were baseless.

Prosecutor Maureen Comey asked for continued detention for Comes, citing evidence of physical violence and extensive drug abuse, saying:
"We will certainly seek a lengthy prison sentence."

Judge Arun Subramanian postponed his bail decision until later in the day, when he would present written evidence.

Testimony and background

The verdict came after weeks of court hearings and 34 witnesses, including Cassie, an R&B singer and Kames' ex-girlfriend. Cassie testified over four days about an 11-year relationship filled with humiliation, violence and sexual abuse. She said Kames forced her to attend sex parties with male sex workers and beat her when things didn't go her way.

Another ex-girlfriend, who appeared in court under the pseudonym "Jane," said she had repeatedly said she didn't want to be in the relationship, but felt pressured to do so because of rent and financial obligations.

Rapper Kid Cudi also testified that in 2011, after he had an affair with Kesey, Kames broke into his home and his car caught fire a few weeks later. “I knew it was Kames,” Cudi said.

Kames denied the claim.

Diddy’s rocky career

Kames was a controversial figure in hip-hop in the 1990s and later went into business with the Sean John clothing line, Ciroc vodka, a television network, and a film and TV studio.

He was previously involved in one of hip-hop’s most famous trials in 2001, but was acquitted of charges of carrying a gun and attempting to lure his driver in a nightclub shooting.

However, his reputation was severely damaged after Kesey filed a lawsuit in November 2023. In the lawsuit, Kesey alleged years of sexual and physical abuse by Kames. Although Combs settled for $20 million the next day, other similar lawsuits by women and men have been filed, many of which are still pending.

Officials' closing statement

After the verdict, the Manhattan District Attorney and the director of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations in New York City said in a joint statement:
"Sex crimes are pervasive in many parts of our society. The people of New York and across America demand an end to this scourge and the prosecution of its perpetrators."

A final sentencing for Combs on the prostitution charges will be announced at a later date.

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