For nearly seven weeks, a Manhattan jury has heard disturbing testimony in the criminal case against music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. Prosecutors claim he ran a violent sex trafficking ring. They presented several witnesses, including ex-girlfriends, who described shocking incidents involving drugs, abuse, and forced sex.

Jury set to begin deliberation

On Monday, the jury will start deliberating. They must decide whether Combs led a criminal operation, as prosecutors argue, or—as his defense claims—lived an extreme but private lifestyle involving drugs and consensual sex.

This decision will shape the future of one of the most influential figures in the music world. If the jury finds him guilty, Combs, 55, could face 15 years to life in prison.

What charges does Combs face?

Combs has pleaded not guilty to five serious charges. These include:

• One count of racketeering conspiracy

• Two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion

• Two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution

Prosecutors say Combs used drugs, threats, and hired sex workers to control women at abusive sex parties. They also accuse him of using violence, kidnapping, and blackmail to keep victims silent.

“He’s the leader of a criminal enterprise. He doesn’t take no for an answer,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik during her final arguments.

Defense says Prosecutors Exaggerated

However, Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, argued that the case was exaggerated. He said Combs was the victim of a “fake trial” built on an extreme version of his private life. According to Agnifilo, the government used his lifestyle and drug use to unfairly paint him as a criminal.

Understanding the Racketeering Charge

The most serious charge is racketeering conspiracy. Prosecutors say Combs ran a criminal operation for 20 years. They claim his bodyguards, assistants, and other staff helped him commit and cover up crimes.

This charge falls under the RICO Act, a law created in 1970 to target organized crime. To prove it, prosecutors must show that a criminal enterprise existed and committed several crimes. In this case, they listed kidnapping, arson, bribery, and sex trafficking as part of the pattern.

Key evidence presented in court

One of the strongest pieces of evidence was a 2016 hotel security video. It showed Combs attacking his former girlfriend, singer Cassie (real name Casandra Ventura). She testified that Combs beat her as she tried to leave one of his sex parties, which he allegedly called “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”

Prosecutors also played explicit video clips. Some involved Cassie, while others showed another woman known only as “Jane.” Both women testified during the trial.

Cassie took the stand for four days. She said she joined hundreds of these encounters between 2007 and 2018. Often, she felt she had no choice. In 2023, she sued Combs, accusing him of years of abuse. He settled the case in a few hours. After that, more women filed similar lawsuits.

Jane testified for six days. She said she dated Combs from 2021 until his arrest in September 2023. She also claimed he forced her into sex with strangers during long, drug-fueled parties while he watched.

Other evidence and witnesses

In addition to the women’s testimony, jurors heard hours of text messages. A Homeland Security agent read messages sent by Combs and people around him.

In total, 34 witnesses testified in court. All were called by the prosecution. Combs himself did not testify.