Diddy Escapes Life Sentence in Federal Trial but Could Serve Up to 20 Years for Prostitution-Related Offenses
In a major legal twist, hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs has been acquitted of the most severe allegations in his high-profile federal case. On July 2, 2025, a Manhattan federal court jury found Combs not guilty of two counts of sex trafficking and one count of racketeering conspiracy—charges that could have landed the music mogul behind bars for life. However, the jury convicted him on two lesser charges related to prostitution, marking a partial win for both defense and prosecution.
Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been found not guilty of sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy in a mixed verdict.
— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) July 2, 2025
He has been found guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution. pic.twitter.com/lM18aEDKCP
The trial, which gripped the entertainment world for seven weeks, involved explosive testimony and sensational evidence. Federal prosecutors accused Combs of using his entertainment empire and power to coerce women—especially ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and an anonymous accuser called “Jane”—into participating in what they dubbed “Freak Off” parties. These were described as drug-fueled orgies where women allegedly performed for men under threat, surveillance, or manipulation.
But despite the graphic details and emotional testimonies, the jury didn’t find enough evidence to convict on the most severe charges of sex trafficking and racketeering. Still, Combs wasn’t fully cleared: the jury unanimously found him guilty of transporting individuals across state lines to engage in prostitution. Each of these charges carries a potential 10-year sentence, meaning the Bad Boy Records founder could still face up to 20 years in federal prison.
From LA to Miami Raids: Behind the “Freak Off” Investigation
The courtroom saw heated debates, tearful testimonies, and disturbing visuals. Prosecutors presented over 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricants seized during federal raids on Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami—claimed to be tools used in the orchestrated “Freak Off” parties.
They alleged Combs exercised psychological control over victims, using threats to release private content, denying financial support, and physically assaulting those who resisted. One of the most damning testimonies came from Ventura, who previously settled a civil lawsuit against Combs in 2023 for $20 million. Her presence was symbolic in court, even though she didn’t testify during this criminal trial.
The defense countered these claims by painting Combs as the target of an overzealous prosecution and media frenzy. They argued the relationships were consensual, that no direct coercion was ever proven, and that the prosecution’s case leaned too heavily on circumstantial evidence. The not-guilty verdict on the sex trafficking and racketeering charges supports the argument that the jury wasn’t fully convinced of systemic abuse.
Diddy’s Legal Roadmap: From Bail Petition to Final Sentence
After hearing the verdict, Diddy reportedly knelt and prayed, then smiled and told supporters, “I’m gonna be home soon.” While the acquittals brought relief, the conviction leaves uncertainty. Combs remains in federal custody, and his legal team is now pushing for bail before sentencing.
The upcoming sentencing hearing will determine if Combs serves any prison time or receives a lighter punishment. Meanwhile, Cassie Ventura issued a public statement expressing hope that this verdict will “pave the way” for more survivors to speak out.
Although Diddy has dodged a life sentence, his legal and public battles are far from over.
