USA – Jurors in New York at the moment are deliberating the destiny of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who’s on trial for allegedly main a prison organisation that prosecutors declare orchestrated coercive intercourse marathons, drug distribution, and different violent crimes.
The panel of eight males and 4 ladies wrapped up its first day of deliberations on Monday with out reaching a verdict. Earlier than adjourning, the jury submitted a observe to the decide requesting clarification on authorized definitions associated to drug distribution.
The high-profile trial has lasted seven weeks, gripping the nation with graphic testimonies and surprising allegations.
Disturbing Allegations
Prosecutors allege that Combs, 55, led a robust and secretive prison enterprise composed of trusted staff who acted as enforcers for his alleged misdeeds. The costs embrace racketeering, intercourse trafficking, transportation for prostitution, and drug crimes. If convicted, Combs faces life in jail.
Key to the federal government’s case are testimonies from two ladies, together with Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and one other who testified anonymously as Jane. Each described years of coercion, abuse, and concern, claiming Combs used violence, intimidation, and manipulation to manage them.
Prosecutors say the artist created a “local weather of concern,” and dedicated crimes starting from pressured labor and kidnapping to bribery and arson.
Defence Pushes Again
Combs has denied all allegations, along with his authorized workforce describing him as a self-made Black entrepreneur whose intimate relationships had been “difficult however consensual.”
Lead legal professional Marc Agnifilo argued that none of Combs’ associates or alleged co-conspirators had been dropped at testify in opposition to him, and emphasised that a number of witnesses had been granted immunity to testify.
He additionally acknowledged that Combs could have engaged in home violence however confused that this alone doesn’t show racketeering or intercourse trafficking.
Prosecution’s Ultimate Phrases
In a robust closing, prosecutor Maurene Comey instructed jurors that Combs acted as if he was “untouchable,” satisfied his victims would by no means converse out.
“He was to this point previous the road he couldn’t even see it,” she mentioned. “The defendant by no means thought the ladies he abused would have the braveness to talk.”
She concluded, “That ends on this courtroom. The defendant just isn’t a god.”
Jurors should now decide whether or not Combs agreed to commit at the least two of the eight crimes tied to the racketeering cost so as to safe a conviction.
A verdict is anticipated within the coming days.
