Music mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs has been found not guilty of sex trafficking and racketeering charges, but was found guilty on two counts of prostitution, or the Mann Act.
The racketeering charges carried a potential sentence of life in prison, according to the Associated Press.
The jury decided on the third day of deliberation, but the guilty verdicts could still mean a prison sentence of at least a decade for the 55-year-old rapper.
The AP further reported that Combs remains in custody after Judge Arun Subramanian denied his request for a $1 million bond, citing legal restrictions. While sentencing is pending, each conviction carries a maximum of 10 years in prison.
Combs reacted to the verdict by praying and hugging his attorney, appearing relieved at the acquittals.
Human trafficking expert Kimberly Mehlman-Orozco explained the sex trafficking charges failed because Combs’ behavior didn’t meet the legal definition.
“Traffickers will deprive you of things and take your money,” she said, contrasting that with Combs’ alleged gifts and financial support to the women involved.
She also noted that assault-related charges couldn’t be pursued due to expired statutes of limitations, calling it a systemic issue: “This should be a catalyst for reform.”
This story is still developing.
