Sean “Diddy” Combs is pushing back against the remaining charges from his high-profile federal trial, as his legal team files a motion requesting either a full acquittal or a new trial. Although the music mogul was cleared of the most severe allegations, including racketeering and sex trafficking, he was convicted earlier this month on two counts related to transporting individuals for prostitution. His attorneys argue that the conviction misapplies the law and was influenced by unfair evidence.
In their filing, Combs’ lawyers challenge the use of the Mann Act—a century-old law originally created to combat forced prostitution—claiming that it was used in a discriminatory and unprecedented way. According to their argument, Combs did not engage in or facilitate prostitution, but instead participated in consensual adult activities often associated with a swingers lifestyle. They say the case sets a troubling precedent and misrepresents what the law was designed to punish.
The defense also argues that Combs’ actions were protected by the First Amendment, stating that any performances or parties he directed were lawful and expressive in nature. They further claim that the jury’s decision may have been unfairly swayed by emotionally charged evidence unrelated to the specific charges—particularly a video of a past altercation with singer Cassie Ventura, which had been tied to dismissed charges in the broader case.
Combs, who is currently being held in a federal detention center in Brooklyn, is also seeking to be released on bond and allowed to await sentencing from his home in Miami. If the court denies his latest motion, the legal battle may head to higher courts—or even the political arena—as discussions of a potential presidential pardon have already begun to swirl.
Source: ABC News
