In a Shocking Turn: Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking & Racketeering, But Convicted on Prostitution Transport Charges

July 2, 2025- In a verdict that’s already shaking up headlines, a federal jury in Manhattan found Sean “Diddy” Combs not guilty on the two most serious charges—sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy—but guilty on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution, citing violations of the Mann Act. He remains in custody pending sentencing.

What We Know:

1. Acquittal Shocks Most, But Partial Conviction Looms:  Diddy walked free of the charges alleging he ran a criminal enterprise involving forced sexual acts—arranging “Freak Off” parties, coercing women, and abuse over decades. The jury did not find him guilty of racketeering or sex trafficking for such acts.

Of five charges, Diddy was only found guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution in a sex trafficking trial.

2. Convictions Bring Serious Liabilities: He was ruled guilty of transporting Cassie Ventura and another unnamed woman across state lines, facilitating prostitution—a serious violation under the Mann Act.

3. Dual Reactions from Courtroom to Social Media: Inside the courtroom, Diddy and his family broke into prayer and cheers upon hearing the acquittals, while his legal team embraced. Outside, Cassie’s attorney called her “exemplary” for testifying, saying she “paved the way” for the lesser guilty verdicts.

Janice Combs (C), mother of Sean “Diddy” Combs, waves as she departs alongside her grandchildren and family members at Manhattan’s Federal Court after jury reached a full verdict in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial on July 2, 2025, in New York City. Music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs was found not guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking on Wednesday but convicted of a less serious prostitution charge after a high-profile seven-week trial in New York. (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP) (Photo by TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP via Getty Images)

4. Legal Experts Say This is Far from Over Though acquitted of the major charges, outlooks remain cautious. Analysts note that Mann Act convictions still carry serious prison terms—and resentences, appeals, or civil suits could follow.

Had Sean “Diddy” Combs been found guilty of the sex trafficking or racketeering conspiracy charges, he could have faced a life sentence. The jury’s decision to acquit him on those counts spares him from a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison. According to his defense team, sentencing guidelines suggest the remaining convictions—related to transporting women across state lines for prostitution—may result in a sentence of no more than two years. However, federal prosecutors argue he could still face up to 63 months.

Despite a formal plea from Combs’ legal team for release on a $1 million bond while awaiting sentencing, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian denied the request. Citing testimony and evidence presented throughout the trial—especially around patterns of past abuse—the judge ruled that Combs must remain in federal custody at the Brooklyn Metropolitan Detention Center.

Diddy’s reaction to court verdict.

Why It Matters

This split verdict sends a powerful message about public figures, consent, and accountability under U.S. law. Avoiding jail for trafficking & racketeering might boost Diddy’s legacy—but the prostitution convictions signal serious legal and moral ramifications. Both sides are already eyeing appeals, so the story is far from over.