The jury finally reached a verdict in the ‘Diddy’ case on Wednesday, after two months of a trial that captivated the United States.
American hip hop mogul Sean Combs, otherwise known as P. Diddy, was convicted of prostitution-related offences on the jury’s third day of deliberations.
The 55-year-old star received the verdict in front of his family and supporters.
Combs was found guilty of flying people across the country to engage in sexual encounters but he was acquitted of the most serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
Several women, including his ex-girlfriend Casandra Ventura, accused the rapper of forcing them to participate in drug-fuelled sex marathons with various men. Combs and his defence team argued that the women were willing participants.
The star escapes prison for life, but he could still spend time behind bars. His convictions each carry a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
The Manhattan federal court has not yet announced a sentencing date. Combs’ lawyers have asked for his release on bail in the meantime. Prosecutors objected, citing the violent nature of his crimes.
The judge adjourned the court while he considers whether to free Combs on bail.
Combs continues to face several dozens of civil lawsuits related to physical and sexual assault allegations.
Source: Africanews
