Diddy convicted on two lesser charges. Bail denied!
New York, US, Jul 2 (EFE) –
Rapper and music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted Tuesday of the most serious charges he faced, including leading a criminal enterprise and sex trafficking, accusations that could have resulted in a life sentence. The federal jury, after days of deliberation, found Combs guilty on only two lesser counts: “transportation for the purpose of prostitution,” relating to two alleged victims, singer Cassie Ventura and a second woman who testified under the alias Jane Roe.
According to legal analysts, these convictions could carry a sentence of up to 10 years, or potentially 20, but represent a significant legal victory for the embattled artist.
Upon hearing the verdict, Combs repeatedly thanked the jury and nodded toward his family and legal team in a gesture of relief.
However, federal Judge Arun Subramanian denied bail, indicating that, before the trial began, the court had already refused to release Combs on bail.
Courtroom reacts with surprise and relief
The verdict was read in a packed Brooklyn courtroom and simultaneously broadcast to an overflow room where dozens of journalists and supporters had gathered.
Reactions of shock quickly gave way to celebration among those backing the artist.
Many in the crowd had come to support Combs, and when the jury’s decision was announced by its foreperson and confirmed by all members, emotional outbursts and tears were seen throughout the room.
Combs, visibly moved, turned to his lead attorney Marc Agnifilo, nodding with satisfaction.
The atmosphere marked a sharp contrast with the previous day when the court revealed that a partial verdict had been reached and tensions had run high.
Defense requests release ahead of sentencing
Following the verdict, Agnifilo requested that the judge release Combs from the Brooklyn detention center where he is currently being held.
The sentencing is expected to take place in the coming weeks.
Prosecutors, however, opposed the motion, arguing that Combs remains a flight risk and poses “an ongoing threat to society.”
The case, which has drawn international attention, stems from a series of civil and criminal allegations lodged against Combs over the past year, including accusations of abuse and misconduct in the entertainment industry.
While the jury did find some fault, the overall decision was seen as a major setback for the prosecution.
Legal experts noted that the ruling may influence other pending cases involving Combs, as well as broader discussions surrounding accountability in the music industry. EFE asg-fjo/seo
