Sean Combs Verdict Reached on Most Charges

Sean Combs, a former billionaire and hip-hop mogul, was charged with racketeering for allegedly coercing his romantic partners into drug-fuelled sexual performances over two decades. Prosecutors claimed that Combs would watch, masturbate, and sometimes film these encounters with male sex workers in hotel rooms. Authorities found drugs and baby oil in Combs' homes, which he used in the performances. Combs, 55, pleaded not guilty to the charges, stating that the activities were consensual despite acknowledging past violent behavior in relationships.

The jury reviewed testimony from singer Cassie Ventura, who described incidents where Combs forced her to participate in these activities. Prosecutors argued that Combs engaged in sex trafficking by using force and threats to involve his partners in the performances. Combs' defense presented text messages from Ventura to suggest her willingness to participate out of love.

Combs faced allegations of violence and coercion from multiple women, including Ventura and another woman referred to as Jane. Prosecutors claimed that Combs' employees facilitated the abuse by arranging hotel rooms and procuring drugs for the encounters. Despite settling a lawsuit with Ventura for $20 million, Combs denied any wrongdoing.

During the trial, jurors saw surveillance footage of Combs' violent behavior towards Ventura. The defense argued that the women participated willingly and accused them of jealousy. The prosecution maintained that Combs used power and fear to manipulate the women into the performances, constituting sex trafficking.