Diddy's defense presenting jury with closing arguments in sex-trafficking trial
Share and Follow


(NewsNation) —Sean “Diddy” Combs’ defense team is giving closing arguments Friday in a final bid to persuade the jury against convicting him of multiple sex crimes.

After calling no witnesses and wrapping their case in one day, attorneys for Combs have four hours to address the jury.

Much of their argument thus far has rested on the theory that all of Combs’ accusers were consenting adults and that no one was forced to participate in sexual events, dubbed “Freak Offs” or “hotel nights.” 

The defense relied largely on text messages between Combs and his ex-partners to show the women were willing and even arranged for the sexual encounters at times. 

Combs is facing a possible life sentence after being charged with one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.

He has pleaded not guilty. 

During the trial, the defense argued Combs was involved in domestic violence but committed no federal crimes. They built their case for acquittal through lengthy cross-examinations of most of the government’s 34 witnesses. 

Combs’ lawyers said there was no racketeering conspiracy because none of his employees agreed to be part of any conspiracy.

Combs’ chief of staff, Kristina Khorram, did not testify.

One of the witnesses, “Jane,” who is Combs’ ex-girlfriend and testified under a pseudonym, hugged defense attorneys after her testimony for the prosecution.

Combs spared no expense in his defense and even included an appellate lawyer in his team.

On Thursday, prosecutors gave their closing arguments by painting Combs’ criminal enterprise as his “kingdom.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik told the jury Combs was someone “who doesn’t take no for an answer” and “counted on silence and shame” to enable his abusive behavior.

She pointed to his “small army” of assistants and bodyguards — some of whom were called to the witness stand earlier in the trial — to help him harm women and cover it up.

“When someone commits a crime as part of a group, they’re more powerful and dangerous,” Slavik said. “The defendant was a powerful man, but he became more powerful and dangerous because of his inner circle, his businesses — the enterprise.”

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
'Diff'rent Strokes' actress Melanie Watson has died

Actress Melanie Watson of ‘Diff’rent Strokes’ Fame Passes Away

Melanie Watson, celebrated for her memorable role in the 1980s sitcom “Diff’rent…
Fifth suspected New Orleans accomplice arrested for allegedly aiding inmates in jailbreak

2025’s Most Intense Manhunts: Five Cases That Gripped American Cities and Campuses

Throughout the year, fugitives have transformed serene neighborhoods, small towns, and college…
Several NFC North champion Chicago Bears players ill ahead of San Francisco 49ers matchup for NFL playoff home-field advantage

Chicago Bears NFC North Champs Face Health Setback Before Crucial NFL Playoff Clash with 49ers

The Chicago Bears are grappling with a wave of illness that has…
Major cities see violent crime surge as national rates plummet significantly in 2025: survey

2025 Crime Trends: Major Cities Experience Surge Amidst Nationwide Decline, Survey Reveals

While the nation breathed a sigh of relief with a decline in…
Shooting at an Oklahoma State University residence hall wounds at least 3 people

Tragic Helicopter Collision in New Jersey Results in One Fatality, Another Critically Injured

In a tragic incident on Sunday, two helicopters collided midair in New…
Charlie Kirk’s killing, Idaho murders plea and Karen Read verdict: Inside 2025’s biggest crime moments

Unraveling 2025’s Biggest Crime Mysteries: Charlie Kirk’s Tragic Death, Idaho Murders Plea, and Karen Read Verdict

The year 2025 was marked by a series of gripping crime stories…
Pennsylvania man charged after killing mother, wounding father after Christmas

Tragic Holiday Incident: Pennsylvania Man Faces Charges for Fatal Attack on Parents Post-Christmas

In a shocking incident that unfolded just after the festive season, an…
Inventor of subtle car feature that has helped drivers dies aged 80

Revolutionary Car Feature Innovator Passes at 80: Celebrating a Legacy of Safer Driving

James Moylan, the visionary behind the small yet significant dashboard arrow indicating…