Deliberations in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial hit a snag almost as soon as they started on Monday, leaving Judge Arun Subramanian to remind jurors of his instructions on the law
Jury deliberations in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial quickly hit a snag yesterday – as two notes were handed to the judge.
One message highlighted a juror was concerned they were unable to follow the 61 pages worth of instructions the judge had just read to them before the deliberations started. However, Judge Arun Subramanian insisted all the jurors follow his instructions rigidly – even if deliberations take some time.
The second note – sent several hours later – asked for clarification on the part of the instructions addressing drug distribution — an allegation included in Combs’ racketeering conspiracy charge. This was addressed and deliberations continue, with some indication a verdict may be reached this afternoon (UK time).
Diddy, 55, has been charged with two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution and one count of racketeering. He denies any wrongdoing. The hip-hop mogul could face life in jail if convicted.
The defendant and his supporters bowed their heads in prayer in the courtroom moments before the jury – comprised of eight men and four women – was let out to deliberate. The jurors must now sift through seven weeks of sometimes graphic and emotional testimony about the musician, who has won three Grammy Awards.
The trial had heard about Diddy’s propensity for violence and his sexual predilections, including drug-fueled sex marathons dubbed “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”
Wearing his customary sweater and khakis, Combs stood facing his supporters in the audience and bowed his head with them. As they finished, they applauded, along with the hip-hop legend.
The star, born in New York City, has pleaded not guilty to federal charges of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking — relating to two of his ex-girlfriends — and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution for allegedly arranging to fly his girlfriends and sex workers across state lines.
In closing arguments last week, federal prosecutors and Combs’ defence team took their last shots at convincing jurors to convict or acquit the musician.
Assistant US Attorney Christy Slavik said: “The defendant used power, violence and fear to get what he wanted. He thought that his fame, wealth and power put him above the law.”
She said that he used his “close inner circle and a small army of personal staff, who made it their mission to meet the defendant’s every desire, promote his power and protect his reputation at all costs.”
But defence lawyer Marc Agnifilo hit back. He said: “This isn’t about crime. It’s about money.” He noted that one of Combs’ accusers in the criminal case also sued him in civil court.
“He is not a racketeer. He is not a conspirator to commit racketeering. He is none of these things. He is innocent. He sits there innocent. Return him to his family, who have been waiting for him,” the lawyer told jurors.