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Key Points
- Sean Combs was found guilty on two counts of transporting women for prostitution but cleared of trafficking charges.
- The jury rejected the prosecution’s claim that “violence and fear” compelled victims to perform sex acts.
- Combs faces up to 10 years for each of the two counts, though sentencing guidelines suggest a shorter prison term.
On Thursday AEST, Combs’ bid to be released from jail ahead of his sentencing was rejected as US district judge Arun Subramanian denied him bail.
Sean “Diddy” Combs fell to his knees and knelt against a chair after learning of the verdict. Source: AAP / AP / Elizabeth Williams
Combs, 55, who had pleaded not guilty to all five counts, faces a maximum 10-year prison sentence on each of the two prostitution counts.
Prosecutors unsuccessfully argued that Combs’ conduct towards both women amounted to sex trafficking because he compelled Ventura and Jane to take part in the performances using physical violence and threats to withhold financial support or leak sexually explicit images of them.
Acquittal on three charges
The defence acknowledged Combs engaged in domestic violence, but argued that Ventura and Jane consensually took part in the sexual performances because they wanted to please Combs.
Sean “Diddy” Combs still faces dozens of civil lawsuits accusing him of abuse. Source: Getty / Gareth Cattermole
Defence lawyers accused prosecutors of trying to criminalise Combs’ private sex life.
