After a high-profile nine-week federal trial, music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs has been found guilty of two counts of transportation for prostitution. However, he was acquitted of the more serious charges of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy.
Combs initially faced five charges: one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking by force or fraud, and two counts of transportation with intent to engage in prostitution.
According to CNN, emotions ran high in the courtroom as the verdict was read. Diddy reportedly dropped to his knees in front of his chair, bowing his head in a moment that appeared to be prayer. Moments later, he stood and began clapping—an act that prompted a wave of applause from the gallery. He then embraced his legal team and turned to his mother, telling her, “Thank you. Love you, Mom. I love you. I love you. I love you,” as his family, visibly emotional, joined in the applause.
His attorney, Marc Agnifilo, praised the jury's decision, saying, “Mr. Combs has been given his life by this jury. He treasures, I assure you, the opportunity that he has been given, and he will not run afoul of anything this court imposes on him.”
Despite the partial acquittal, Combs is not yet in the clear. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey confirmed that the government will still pursue a sentence of incarceration, with Diddy facing up to 20 years in prison for the two convictions.
Judge Arun Subramanian has ordered both sides to submit written arguments regarding Combs’ potential release. The letters are due by 1 p.m. ET today. Meanwhile, Agnifilo is pushing for his client’s immediate release, while prosecutors push for detention pending sentencing.
Source: CNN
