Sean Diddy, one of the most famous rappers in the United States, is on trial as of Monday after being accused of running a criminal organization dedicated to abuse. On the second day of proceedings, the artist appeared before the Federal District Court in Lower Manhattan, New York, where his legal fate will be determined. But what are the charges, and what sentence could he face? Here are five key points to understand the trial.
What are the accusations against Sean Diddy?
Sean “Diddy” Combs, 55, is facing charges of racketeering, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transportation for the purpose of prostitution. Among the most serious allegations is a charge of conspiracy to commit extortion. He is accused of kidnapping, drugging, and coercing women into participating in sexual acts. During a raid on his luxurious Los Angeles mansion, authorities reportedly found supplies intended for orgies, including drugs and over 1,000 bottles of baby oil.
ALSO READ Apple’s new iOS 18.5 update is now available! What’s included and how to install it?
Combs is also facing multiple civil lawsuits alleging rape and assault, including one from a woman identified as Jane Doe. She claims she was gang-raped by Combs and others in 2003 when she was 17 years old. She says the assailants provided her with large amounts of drugs and alcohol before the assault.
However, Combs’ legal troubles date back to late 2023, when his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura filed a lawsuit accusing him of physical abuse and rape. That case was quickly settled for an undisclosed sum, although Combs maintained his innocence. Since then, several people have come forward with similar allegations of sexual assault, some dating as far back as 1991. Combs has denied all the accusations.
What sentence could Sean Diddy face?
Since his arrest on September 16, 2024, Combs has been held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, New York. The sentence he may receive will depend on how many of the charges are proven in court.
If found guilty of conspiracy, the rapper could face a life sentence. In addition, he could receive at least 15 more years for the sex trafficking charges and another 10 years if convicted of transporting individuals for prostitution.
ALSO READ Wendy’s is launching a new Frosty flavor! What is it and when will it go on sale?
Who will judge Sean Diddy?
The jury judging the case consists of 12 individuals: eight men and four women between the ages of 30 and 70, along with six alternates.
What will happen in today’s hearing?
Monday’s session ended after hearing testimony from Daniel Phillip, the prosecution’s second witness. Phillip, a male escort, testified that he was allegedly paid to have sexual encounters with Cassie Ventura while Diddy watched.
Today, Diddy’s defense team is expected to begin cross-examining Phillip. Afterward, Cassie Ventura will take the stand as the prosecution’s third witness. The court may also present sexual video footage from parties hosted by Diddy, where some of the alleged abuses are said to have taken place.
Who is Sean “Diddy” Combs?
Sean John Combs, known by various stage names such as Puffy, Puff Daddy, P. Diddy, Love, and Brother Love, reshaped the hip-hop landscape after emerging on the music scene in the 1990s. He first found success by launching the careers of artists like Mary J. Blige and Christopher Wallace, better known as Biggie Smalls or The Notorious B.I.G.
Through his record label, Bad Boy Records, he achieved an early breakthrough with Biggie’s Ready to Die album, which went platinum. The label soon became one of the most influential names in rap, signing talents like Faith Evans, Ma$e, 112, Mariah Carey, and Jennifer Lopez.
ALSO READ What is FOX One, the new streaming platform launched by Fox, like? This includes
Beyond music, Combs built a thriving business career. In 2007, he partnered with British beverage company Diageo to promote the French vodka brand Cîroc in the U.S., a move that became one of his most successful business ventures.
In 2023, he released his fifth studio album, The Love Album: Off The Grid, earning his first solo Grammy nomination. That same year, he was honored as a global icon at the MTV Awards.
Throughout his career, Combs has also faced legal issues. In May 1999, he was arrested on suspicion of assault. In March 2001, he was acquitted of gun possession and bribery charges related to a 1999 nightclub shooting in New York. In 2003, he was sued for allegedly threatening a business associate with a baseball bat, and in 2015, he was arrested following an alleged altercation with his son’s football coach.
