Charge Conference Narrows the Case
On June 25, the diddy trial convened a charge conference as prosecutors, defense attorneys, and Judge Arun Subramanian met to finalize jury instructions. U.S. attorneys announced they would drop racketeering theories related to attempted kidnapping in California and New York, attempted arson in California, and an aiding-and-abetting sex trafficking claim. These changes aim to “streamline” the instructions ahead of closing arguments, expected between the end of this week and June 30.
Seven Weeks of Testimony and 30+ Witnesses
Prosecutors rested their case on June 24 after nearly seven weeks of testimony. Over 30 witnesses from Combs’ personal and professional circle took the stand, including:
- Ex-girlfriends Casandra “Cassie” Ventura Fine and “Jane”
- Danity Kane alum Dawn Richard
- Rap peer Kid Cudi
Graphic evidence of Combs’ alleged “freak off” sex parties played a central role. Prosecutors presented video footage, text messages, and financial records to show Combs and his employees organizing elaborate sexual performances with escorts and partners. These materials underscored sex trafficking charges, even as some related counts were later dropped.
Defense Rests Without Witnesses
In a swift move, Combs’ attorneys rested their case in under 30 minutes, opting not to call any witnesses. The defense highlighted romantic and explicit texts between Combs and Ventura Fine, arguing these messages showed consensual interactions rather than criminal conduct. The Grammy-winning rapper, who faces charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution, chose not to testify in his own defense.
Judge Grants Extra Time Before Closing Arguments
During the June 25 conference, Judge Subramanian granted the defense’s request to begin closing arguments on Friday morning, June 27, instead of Thursday afternoon. Prosecutor Maurene Comey argued this delay amounted to gamesmanship, allowing the defense to sit through the prosecution’s closing overnight. The judge overruled her concerns, noting the defense no longer aimed to extend the trial past the July 4 holiday.
Bobby Sherman, 1960s Teen Idol and EMT Instructor, Dies at 81
Key Instruction Dispute Over Sex Trafficking
Prosecutor Madison Smyser emphasized that jurors must understand sex trafficking can occur without a completed commercial sex act. Using hotel security footage of Combs allegedly throwing Ventura Fine to the ground during a freak-off, she argued that the act itself could fulfill trafficking criteria. Defense lawyer Alexandra Shapiro countered that such an instruction would “severely prejudice” Combs, pointing out that the prosecution has long presented the case as requiring a commercial sex act. Judge Subramanian indicated he leans toward the prosecution’s view but will deliberate further.
Diddy Charges Dropped to Streamline Proceedings
In a June 24 filing obtained by USA TODAY, U.S. attorneys confirmed the removal of several diddy charges:
- Attempted kidnapping in California and New York (related to Kid Cudi’s house break-in)
- Attempted arson in California (linked to the explosion of Cudi’s car)
- Aiding and abetting sex trafficking
These dismissals do not affect foundational allegations of completed kidnapping, arson, or ongoing sex trafficking counts in the indictment. The prosecution explained the decision was driven by the judge’s directive to simplify jury instructions for deliberation.
What’s Next in the Diddy Trial?
As the sean combs trial nears its final phase, both sides continue to debate every word of the jury instructions. Combs has remained attentive during these sessions, occasionally nodding as his lawyers requested technical tweaks. Closing arguments will shape jurors’ understanding of the charges before they begin deliberating, possibly as early as this week.
Stay tuned to TNN for the latest p diddy trial updates, diddy trial news, and all developments in the high-stakes p diddy trial.
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