Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs convicted on prostitution charges, cleared of racketeering and sex trafficking

Content warning: This article contains information relating to sexual assault

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been convicted on prostitution charges, but cleared of racketeering and sex trafficking, NBC reports.

The former rapper faced five charges at the trial, which concluded yesterday (2nd July) in New York after beginning back in May. He pleaded not guilty to all charges, including one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of transportation for prostitution and two counts of sex trafficking.

On the charges that included the sex trafficking of Cassie Ventura — who first filed a lawsuit accusing Combs of sexual assault, sex trafficking, and other offences back in 2023 — Combs was found not guilty. He was also cleared of the charge of sex trafficking a woman identified as “Jane”.

However, he was found guilty of the charge of transportation to engage in prostitution of both Ventura and “Jane”. Combs now awaits sentencing for both charges. He could be facing up to 20 years of prison time for the charges, which each carry a potential maximum sentence of 10 years.

As Billboard points out, Combs would have faced a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum term of life had he been found guilty on all charges.

According to the Guardian, Combs has been denied bail by Judge Arun Subramanian, and should remain in jail until his sentencing later this year.

“It is impossible for the defendant to demonstrate by clear and convincing evidence that he poses no danger,” said Subramanian.

If you have been affected by any of the issues discussed in this article, the following organisations may be able to provide help and advice:

In the UK

Victim Support

Provides help and information for anyone who has been affected by a crime, including a violent or sexual assault, or is wary about involving the police.

Helpline: 0845 30 30 900 (Seven days a week)

Website: www.victimsupport.org

The Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre

Support and information for women and girls who have been raped or sexually abused, however long ago and whatever the circumstances.

Helpline: 0845 1221 331 (Seven days a week)

Website: www.rapecrisis.org.uk

In North America

RAINN

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network) is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization

The National Sexual Assault Hotline (24 hours, seven days a week):800.656.HOPE (4673), online.rainn.org, rainn.org/es

Website: https://www.rainn.org/

National Sexual Violence Resource Center

The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC) is the leading nonprofit in providing information and tools to prevent and respond to sexual violence. 

Directory of organizations: https://www.nsvrc.org/organizations

Website: https://www.nsvrc.org/