Combs Convicted on Two Counts But Cleared of More Serious Charges

Sean "Diddy" Combs was found guilty on July 2 of prostitution-related offenses, but cleared of more serious charges, in a blow to prosecutors who had urged a jury to find him guilty of racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking.

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NEW YORK -

Combs was convicted of transportation to engage in prostitution but acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking, a partial win for the former billionaire known for elevating hip-hop in American culture.

After the judge dismissed the jury and lawyers for both sides, Combs knelt before his chair and appeared to pray. Combs then rose and faced the courtroom gallery.

"I'm gonna be home soon," he said, smiling and clasping his hands. "I love you. Thank you, I love you."

Combs' family and supporters erupted into applause and cheers. The verdict followed a criminal trial in which two of the music mogul's former girlfriends testified that he physically and sexually abused them.

Combs faces a maximum 10-year prison sentence on each of the two prostitution counts. US District Judge Arun Subramanian will determine Combs' sentence at a later date.

The acquittals on the sex trafficking counts means he will avoid a 15-year mandatory minimum sentence. He could have faced life in prison if he were convicted on sex trafficking or racketeering conspiracy.

After the jury read its verdict, defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo asked Judge Subramanian to release Combs on bail. Combs has been held in federal lockup in Brooklyn since his September 2024 arrest.