Diddy Faces Federal Sex Trafficking, Racketeering Charges in Manhattan Trial

In the Sean "Diddy" Combs federal trial, defense attorney Marc Agnifilo asserted in closing arguments that Combs led a consensual "swingers" lifestyle and was not a criminal, framing the charges as motivated by money rather than fact. Agnifilo challenged the credibility and motives of accusers like Cassie Ventura and an anonymous woman known as "Jane," suggesting their allegations were financially driven and that sex was consensual. The prosecution, led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik, countered by depicting Combs as the head of a criminal enterprise that used violence, coercion, and manipulation over two decades, emphasizing a pattern of abuse and exploitation involving an inner circle and staff. Judge Arun Subramanian criticized the defense for improper comments during closing arguments and reminded jurors to disregard such remarks, ensuring due process as deliberations approached. Public figures like rapper 50 Cent openly criticized Combs' defense strategy, expressing skepticism about the lawyer's effectiveness. With both sides having presented their final appeals, the jury was set to begin deliberations on the multi-faceted charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and conspiracy.