Federal prosecutors have withdrawn multiple charges against Sean “Diddy” Combs as his high-profile sex trafficking and racketeering trial approaches its final phase, according to court documents filed this week.
Charges Abandoned
In a letter submitted to the court on Tuesday and reviewed by Fox News Digital, government attorneys announced they would no longer pursue theories related to:
- Attempted kidnapping under both California and New York state laws
- Attempted arson under California law
- Aiding and abetting sex trafficking charges
The prosecution cited the court’s preference for streamlined jury instructions as the reason for dropping these charges. “The Government understands the Court’s desire for streamlined instructions,” the filing stated, explaining that removing these theories would eliminate the need for corresponding jury instructions.
Trial Proceedings Wind Down
Both prosecution and defense teams concluded their cases on Tuesday following six weeks of witness testimony. The defense opted not to call any witnesses, instead presenting evidence they claim demonstrates inconsistencies in witness statements throughout the trial.
Defense attorney Alexandra Shapiro immediately filed a motion for judgment of acquittal, arguing the government failed to meet its burden of proof. “There’s, at best, thin proof any of the other employees participated,” Shapiro contended, adding that “there is no evidence any of them believed he was sex trafficking.”
Key Testimony and Allegations
Over the six-week period, jurors heard from numerous witnesses including Combs’ former girlfriends, ex-employees, and investigators. The prosecution built their case around allegations that the music mogul operated a criminal enterprise through his business entities, including Combs Global.
Central to the government’s case were testimonies about so-called “freak offs” or “hotel nights” – alleged forced sexual encounters that prosecutors claim Combs orchestrated. Former employees testified about:
- Setting up hotel rooms for these events at Combs’ direction
- Procuring illegal substances including MDMA, cocaine, and ecstasy
- Facilitating encounters involving male escorts
Two of Combs’ former romantic partners provided particularly significant testimony. Cassie Ventura, who dated the rapper from 2007 to 2018, and another ex-girlfriend testifying under the pseudonym “Jane” both described being introduced to these alleged activities early in their relationships with Combs.
What’s Next
The court is expected to finalize jury instructions on Wednesday, with closing arguments scheduled to span Thursday and Friday. If proceedings stay on schedule, jury deliberations could begin as early as June 30.
The trial represents a dramatic fall for the music industry titan, whose empire once included successful record labels, fashion lines, and media ventures. The outcome will determine whether Combs faces significant prison time on the remaining charges of sex trafficking and racketeering.
