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After three days of deliberations totalling 13 hours, the jury found Diddy guilty of two counts of transportation for prostitution, but not guilty of the more serious charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.
The 54-year-old had pleaded not guilty to all five charges brought against him: one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of transportation for prostitution, and two counts of sex trafficking. The trial, which began in May, has drawn global headlines, with most of the proceedings dominated by the prosecution’s case.
Yesterday’s tense court session saw the jury deliver their verdicts one by one. On the charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking of Cassie Ventura, and sex trafficking of an unnamed woman referred to as “Jane”, Diddy was cleared.
However, on two separate counts of transportation for prostitution, relating to both Ventura and “Jane” and others, he was found guilty.
The BBC reported that emotions ran high in the courtroom as the verdict was delivered. Diddy reportedly prayed with his children and embraced his lawyers before the jury returned. Once the verdicts were read, the courtroom reportedly “exploded with noise” from both supporters and critics of the star.
The guilty verdicts on the transportation for prostitution charges carry potential prison time, though the exact sentencing will be determined at a later date. Legal analysts say the split verdict reflects the jury’s apparent belief that Diddy facilitated the prostitution of women across state lines, but without the wider organised criminal enterprise that racketeering and sex trafficking charges imply.
Diddy, once one of the most powerful figures in the music industry, has seen his reputation battered by the trial, even though he was acquitted on the most serious accusations. His defence team has vowed to appeal the guilty verdicts, saying the prosecution “failed to prove intent” beyond reasonable doubt.
The sentencing hearing is expected to be scheduled within the next two months.
