Sean “Diddy” Combs’ fate has been revealed in his highly publicized sex trafficking trial.
After weeks of vulgar testimony that included details about the “Act Bad” rapper’s wild sex- and drug-filled “Freak-Off” parties, the jury reached a verdict on Wednesday in a Manhattan federal court.
Keep scrolling to find out about Combs’ verdict and what it could mean for the disgraced rapper moving forward.
What was the Diddy verdict?
Combs, 55, was found not guilty on two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; and racketeering conspiracy.
However, he was convicted of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution for his ex-girlfriends Casandra “Cassie” Ventura and Jane Doe.
When asked how they were feeling after hearing the verdict, the dad of seven‘s son Christian said, “Great,” and his three oldest daughters, D’Lila, Jesse and Chance, added, “Good, happy.”
Doug Wigdor, the attorney representing Ventura, told reporters outside the courthouse that his team was pleased that Combs has “finally been held accountable.”
“Of course, we would have liked to have seen a conviction on the sex crimes and RICO, but we understand that ‘beyond a reasonable doubt’ is a high standard,” Wigdor said.
“We’re just pleased he still faces substantial jail time,” he added.
What is the Mann Act?
The prostitution-related charges allege violations of the Mann Act. The Mann Act, also known as the White-Slave Traffic Act, was enacted in 1910 and is a federal law that makes it a crime to transport someone across state lines for illegal sexual activity, according to Cornell Law School.
Combs flew people around the country, including paid male sex escorts and his girlfriends, to engage in sexual encounters he nicknamed “Freak-Offs.”
How long could Diddy go to jail for?
The maximum penalty for violating the Mann Act is 10 years in prison and a fine.
Since the Revolt co-founder was convicted of two prostitution charges, he is facing up to 20 years in prison with no minimum.
When will Diddy be sentenced?
Combs’ official sentencing will take place at a later date, which has not yet been announced by the judge.
If you or someone you know is affected by any of the issues raised in this story, call the Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-330-0226.