đ Summary:
Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was acquitted of the two most serious chargesâracketeering conspiracy and sex traffickingâby a federal jury on July 2, 2025. However, he was found guilty on two lesser counts under the Mann Act for transporting women across state lines for prostitution.
- â Not Guilty: Racketeering and sex trafficking (including allegations involving singer Cassie Ventura).
- â Guilty: Transporting individuals for illegal sexual activity.
Combs now faces a possible sentence of up to 10 years per count, but legal experts suggest he may serve closer to 15â21 months due to the nonviolent nature of the offenses and his clean record.
A formal sentencing hearing is expected soon, where the judge will decide whether Combs will be held in custody or released on bail in the meantime.
The jury, after weeks of testimony from multiple accusers and expert witnesses, decided there wasn’t enough evidence to prove that Combs was running an organized criminal operation or directly involved in sex trafficking. These charges could have sent him to prison for decades.
However, Combs was found guilty on two lesser countsâviolations of the Mann Act, a federal law that prohibits transporting individuals across state lines for the purpose of prostitution.
What the Jury Decided
Hereâs how the verdict broke down:
| Charge | Description | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Racketeering Conspiracy | Accused of operating a criminal enterprise | â Not Guilty |
| Sex Trafficking (Cassie Ventura) | Allegedly forced Ventura into sex acts | â Not Guilty |
| Transport for Prostitution (Ventura) | Took Ventura across state lines for sex | â Guilty |
| Sex Trafficking (“Jane Roe”) | Separate trafficking charge | â Not Guilty |
| Transport for Prostitution (“Jane Roe”) | Similar to above | â Guilty |
What Happens Next
While Combs avoided the most damaging charges, heâs still facing prison time. Each guilty count under the Mann Act carries a maximum sentence of 10 years. However, legal experts suggest:
- Combs is unlikely to receive the full sentence
- A sentence of 15â21 months is more likely due to it being a first-time, non-violent conviction
A sentencing hearing will be held soon to determine his punishment. His legal team has already requested bail, hoping he can remain free until that time.
