The high-profile federal trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to enter a critical phase on Thursday, June 26, as both the prosecution and defense prepare to deliver their closing arguments.
After weeks of intense testimony, legal teams will make their final pitches to jurors in what is expected to be a marathon session, with each side planning to speak for several hours. The outcome could determine the fate of the 55-year-old artist and businessman, who faces serious federal charges.
Combs is accused of masterminding a decades-long criminal enterprise involving forced labour, bribery, arson, witness tampering, and sex trafficking. Federal prosecutors allege that Combs and a close circle of employees orchestrated and benefited from these activities while maintaining a public image of success and glamour.
Among the most serious charges is racketeering, which could carry a life sentence if he is convicted. Combs also faces two counts of sex trafficking and two counts of transportation for the purpose of prostitution. Prosecutors claim he coerced two women—including singer Casandra Ventura and another known in court as "Jane"—into years of drug-fueled sex involving escorts.
The defense has categorically denied all allegations. Combs’ legal team argues that the relationships in question were consensual and that many witnesses were motivated by money, envy, or personal vendettas. They sought to cast doubt on the credibility of the prosecution's witnesses.
Over 30 individuals testified during the trial, including former assistants, escorts, family members, hotel staff, law enforcement officials, and a forensic psychologist. Notably, a hotel security guard testified that he was bribed with $100,000 in cash to keep silent.
Prosecutors also introduced thousands of pages of phone and text message records, as well as financial documents showing CashApp transactions, hotel bookings, and flight records. Jurors were shown video footage from parties the prosecution described as criminal, while the defense emphasized messages they claim demonstrate mutual affection and consent.
Combs did not testify in his own defense—a common legal strategy in criminal trials, where the burden is on prosecutors to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The trial, which began in early May, has captivated the public, with dozens of influencers and social media commentators gathering daily outside the Manhattan federal courthouse despite a strict ban on electronic devices inside.
Although Combs remains incarcerated and has avoided public entrances, several high-profile figures— including family members and rapper Kid Cudi, who testified that Combs' associates allegedly set his car on fire—have made appearances.
Closing arguments are expected to conclude by Friday. While there’s a slim chance jurors could begin deliberations that same day, legal teams indicated the panel will more likely receive the case on Monday.
The world will then await the verdict, as 12 jurors decide the future of a man once celebrated as a cultural icon—now facing the possibility of life behind bars.
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