Music star Sean “Diddy” Combs showed tears, prayers, and joy after a U.S. court cleared him of serious charges of racketeering and sex trafficking. The verdict saved him from a possible life sentence in prison.
The 55-year-old was, however, found guilty of two smaller crimes related to prostitution. He may still face prison time, but his legal team called the verdict a victory.
“I believe this is a major step in the right direction. He will walk free one day,” said Diddy’s lawyer Marc Agnifilo outside the courtroom.
Diddy looked emotional in court as the verdict was read. He quietly thanked the jury, pumped his fists in his lap, and turned to his family to say, “I love you.”
Later, a court sketch showed him on his knees with his face buried in the chair he had sat in for the past two months during the trial.
His lawyer, Teny Geragos, was also seen crying as she held Diddy’s hand while the verdict was being read.
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The trial included difficult moments, with several women accusing Diddy of violent abuse and being forced into sex acts. Prosecutors said he ran a criminal group of workers who helped him commit serious crimes.
But the jury did not agree with the most serious claims. Instead, they sided with the defence, which said the stories were exaggerated and painted an unfair picture of the music mogul.
Prosecutors, however, said Diddy was a violent man with no remorse.
“Sex crimes deeply scar victims. Victims endure gut-wrenching physical and mental abuse,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a statement.
Even with the partial win, Diddy will remain in jail. The judge refused to grant him bail, meaning he will stay in prison until his sentencing.
When the judge asked if he wanted to go back to Brooklyn’s notorious jail, Diddy shook his head quickly. Still, he remained calm as his lawyers argued for his release.
The courtroom was packed with supporters, influencers, and social media personalities who gathered outside hoping to see him. Police had to block off the area due to the large crowd.
Despite not getting bail, Diddy’s team saw the day as a big win.
“He has lived up to his obligations. We will keep fighting,” Agnifilo said.