Diddy Sex Trafficking, Racketeering Jury Seeks Drug Distribution Clarification

Jury deliberations continue in the federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial of music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs, with the process encountering challenges including a juror struggling to follow instructions and a request for clarification on the definition of drug distribution. The jurors asked Judge Arun Subramanian whether handing over a controlled substance upon request constitutes distribution, prompting the judge to refer them back to his original instructions, which define distribution as the actual, constructive, or attempted transfer of a controlled substance, not requiring a sale. The charges against Combs include one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion, and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, with allegations spanning from 2009 to 2024 involving forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice within his business enterprise. The prosecution aims to prove that Combs used his celebrity and wealth to operate a criminal ring forcing women into drug-fueled sexual performances, while the defense seeks to have the jury carefully consider the legal definitions and evidence presented. Despite the jury's concerns over a juror's ability to follow instructions, the judge reminded them of their duty to deliberate thoroughly and follow the law. The court expects the trial to conclude by early July, though the verdict timing remains uncertain as deliberations proceed.