Diddy has been given a second chance after the jurors reached a verdict in his sex trafficking and racketeering trial. Jurors found the music mogul not guilty of the serious charges brought against him. They acquitted him of the racketeering and sex trafficking charges but found him guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. His team is seeking to have him released before his sentencing. However, prosecutors have opposed the motion.
Jury Delivers Mixed Verdict in Diddy’s Trial
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Diddy and his family received good news early Wednesday morning after jurors delivered a mixed verdict in his ongoing trial. The jury sent a note at 9:52 am confirming they had “reached a verdict on all counts.” The jury foreperson answered the verdict for each count as the judge’s deputy read out Diddy’s charges. The Bad Boy entertainment founder was charged with five counts: one count of racketeering conspiracy and two counts each of sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Diddy was found not guilty of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. However, the jury found him guilty on the two counts of the lesser charge of transportation to engage in prostitution. He faces a sentence of up to 20 years for each count. Upon hearing the jury’s verdict, the music producer hugged his attorneys and waved to those in the gallery. One of his lawyers, Teny Geragos, hugged his family members with tears streaming down her cheeks.
Diddy’s Family Excited About Jury’s Verdict
Diddy’s family, including his mother, sister, children, and the mother of his last child, were in court to support him. They all erupted into applause as the music mogul faced them, clapping while some wiped away their tears. Diddy also faced his family, telling them, “Thank you. Love you, Mom.” He added, “I love you. I love you. I love you.” Meanwhile, their happiness waned slightly when they learned Diddy could face up to 20 years in prison for his convictions.
However, they quickly recovered and started chanting “Dream Team” to Diddy’s lawyers, who slapped each other on the back and embraced. NBC asked the rapper’s son how he felt about the verdict, and he responded, “Great.” The mogul’s twin daughters also said the verdict was “Good” and they were “happy.” Meanwhile, a crowd of supporters had gathered outside the courthouse, and they shouted “Free Puff! Free Puff! Free Puff!” as Diddy’s family walked to their van.
Defense Team Seeks Release; Prosecution Seeks Incarceration
Following the jury’s verdict, Diddy’s attorney, Marc Agnifilo, asked for his client’s release. He noted that the music producer had been acquitted of the serious charges and didn’t have access to his plane. Agnifilo requested that Diddy be released today and mentioned that any of his family members could sign his bond. He noted that Diddy would be “nothing short of a fool” if he violated the conditions of his bond.
“Mr. Combs has been given his life by this jury,” he said, referring to the potential life in prison Diddy faced before the jury’s verdict. He added, “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.”
However, the prosecution has opposed the motion, arguing that Diddy does not respect the law and is likely to commit new crimes. Meanwhile, Judge Arun Subramanian stated that he will decide after the two sides submit their letters outlining their positions. The letters are due at 1 pm ET. Prosecutors are also pursuing the rapper’s incarceration. Assistant US Attorney Maurene Comey said Diddy faces up to 20 years for the two counts of transportation for prostitution.
The jury’s verdict for Diddy has been announced after weeks of an intense trial, during which the government called over 60 witnesses. The public is watching to see what the music mogul’s sentencing will be.
#Clique, what do you think of Diddy’s trial verdict? Let us know in the comments.
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