Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was denied bail as he awaits sentencing, following his conviction Wednesday on a federal prostitution-related charge. The jury acquitted him of more serious sex trafficking and racketeering allegations that could have led to a life sentence.
The verdict, delivered on the third day of deliberations in Manhattan federal court, marks a significant legal development for the 55-year-old hip-hop icon. While Combs still faces up to 10 years in prison for violating the federal Mann Act—by arranging for individuals, including male sex workers and romantic partners, to travel across state lines for sex—he avoided the most severe penalties tied to the initial indictment.
Jurors found Combs not guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking charges, which were based on allegations that he used his wealth and influence to force women into repeated drug-fueled encounters with male sex workers. Prosecutors accused him of orchestrating a pattern of coercive and abusive behavior through fear and control.
After the verdict was read, Combs appeared visibly relieved. He pressed his hands together in a prayer gesture, embraced his attorney, and acknowledged supporters in the courtroom before being escorted out by U.S. marshals.
The ruling followed deliberations by a jury of eight men and four women, who earlier in the week expressed difficulty reaching consensus on the racketeering count. In a note to U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian late Tuesday, jurors said “unpersuadable opinions on both sides” had stalled progress on that charge.
Despite the impasse, the judge instructed the jury to continue deliberations, pointing out that fewer than 13 hours had been spent reviewing the complex case. On Wednesday, they returned a split decision—clearing Combs of the most serious allegations and convicting him only on one count.
Prosecutors had painted Combs as the mastermind of a disturbing criminal scheme, citing testimony from former girlfriends, including singer Cassie Ventura, and a male sex worker. They alleged the Bad Boy Records founder used physical intimidation and drugs to facilitate and control sexual encounters under the guise of consensual relationships.
Defense attorneys argued the government blurred the line between unconventional private behavior and criminal conduct. They claimed the women involved were willing participants and that any violence alleged did not amount to federal felonies.
Combs, who did not testify, has denied any wrongdoing. His legal team criticized the prosecution as an effort to criminalize a nontraditional lifestyle and discredit a high-profile Black entrepreneur.
Following Wednesday’s decision, Judge Subramanian denied Combs’ request for bond, ordering that he remain in federal custody while awaiting sentencing, which is expected to take place later this year.
The case is expected to have lasting consequences for Combs’ legacy. Once a towering figure in the entertainment industry with ventures in music, fashion, spirits, and television, the legal battle has already cast a shadow over his career and public image.
