Writing Time: August 06, 2025, 19:45 (U.S. Eastern Time)

Sean “Diddy” Combs will remain in federal custody until his October sentencing after a judge rejected his $50 million bail proposal. The decision follows his conviction on two prostitution-related charges, while acquitting him of more serious allegations of racketeering and sex trafficking. Prosecutors argued that Combs poses a risk of flight and remains a danger to others, citing his history of violence and coercion.

Judge Rejects Bail in High-Profile Case

In a ruling issued Monday, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian denied Sean “Diddy” Combs’ latest request to be released on bail while awaiting sentencing. The 55-year-old music and fashion entrepreneur has been in custody since his arrest in September.

The decision comes after Combs was acquitted last month of racketeering and sex trafficking charges but convicted on two counts of a prostitution-related offense. Under federal law, individuals convicted of such offenses are generally detained pending sentencing unless they can prove they pose no flight risk or danger to the community.

Judge Subramanian wrote that Combs failed to meet this burden, noting that the case involved “evidence of violence, coercion, and subjugation.” He concluded that these factors weighed heavily against granting bail, even under strict conditions.

Prosecutors Cite Risk and Dangerous Conduct

Federal prosecutors opposed Combs’ release, arguing that his “extensive history of violence” and efforts to minimize his actions underscored his potential danger.

During the trial, prosecutors alleged that Combs coerced two former girlfriends into engaging in drug-fueled, days-long sexual encounters with male sex workers while he watched and filmed. Four women testified that he had physically assaulted or sexually abused them, and jurors were shown video footage of Combs kicking and dragging R&B singer Cassie in a hotel hallway.

Prosecutors said Combs used his wealth, celebrity status, and intimidation to maintain control over his partners and to facilitate the alleged acts.

Defense Argues for Conditional Release

Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo argued that Combs’ acquittals on the most serious charges weakened the rationale for keeping him detained. He also claimed that Combs is the only person in the U.S. currently jailed solely for hiring adult male escorts for himself and a partner.

The defense expressed concern over conditions at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, which has long been criticized for poor sanitation and safety risks. While Judge Subramanian acknowledged the facility’s “serious” issues, he said Combs had not demonstrated exceptional health or personal circumstances warranting release.

The bail package proposed by Combs’ legal team included:

• $50 million bond
• Travel restrictions
• Potential house arrest at his Miami residence
• Electronic monitoring
• Private security guards

Despite these offers, the court sided with prosecutors, emphasizing public safety concerns.

Sentencing Could Bring Up to 10 Years in Prison

Combs faces a maximum sentence of 10 years on the prostitution-related charges. Federal sentencing guidelines, while not mandatory, will play a role in determining his punishment. Prosecutors and defense attorneys remain divided over how those guidelines apply in this case.

Judge Subramanian will have broad discretion in sentencing, which is scheduled for October 2025. Until then, Combs will remain at the Metropolitan Detention Center.

A Career Marked by Fame and Controversy

Sean “Diddy” Combs, founder of Bad Boy Records, is a Grammy-winning artist and a cultural icon who helped launch the careers of numerous hip hop stars. Beyond music, he has built a business empire that spans fashion, spirits, and television.

However, his career has also been shadowed by allegations of violence and misconduct. Prosecutors in this case sought to portray him as someone who leveraged his public persona to conceal abusive behavior, while his defense insisted that the relationships in question were consensual and complex.

Next Steps in the Case

With sentencing just months away, both sides are preparing to present arguments that could significantly impact Combs’ prison term. Prosecutors are expected to highlight victim testimony and prior acts of violence, while the defense will likely stress his acquittals and charitable contributions.

Public interest in the case remains high due to Combs’ celebrity status, and his legal battles could have lasting effects on his legacy in music and business.

Source: AP News – Judge says Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs must stay in jail until he is sentenced

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Written on July 29, 2025 – 18:00 EDT

Ghislaine Maxwell, the longtime associate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, has petitioned the United States Supreme Court to review and overturn her 2022 sex-trafficking conviction. Her legal team argues she was covered by a non-prosecution agreement (NPA) Epstein signed with federal prosecutors in 2007—an agreement she says should have shielded her from criminal liability.

Maxwell, who is currently serving a 20-year sentence in federal prison, maintains that the U.S. government violated the terms of that agreement by prosecuting her for crimes linked to Epstein. The Supreme Court is expected to decide later this year whether it will take up the case.

Maxwell claims federal promise was broken

In a new brief filed Monday, Maxwell’s attorneys asserted that the U.S. government broke its word by pursuing charges against her despite the earlier agreement made with Epstein. They emphasized that the issue at hand is not Epstein’s criminal conduct, but the legal obligations of the federal government.

“This case is about what the government promised, not what Epstein did,” her lawyers told the Court.

David Oscar Markus, Maxwell’s lead attorney, issued a statement reinforcing that position:

“We are appealing not only to the Supreme Court but to the president himself to recognize how profoundly unjust it is to scapegoat Ghislaine Maxwell for Epstein’s crimes—especially when the government promised she would not be prosecuted.”

The petition argues that the Epstein NPA, reached in Florida in 2007, included a clause that should have extended protections to his alleged co-conspirators. Maxwell’s team contends she was among those individuals and therefore should not have faced prosecution in a different jurisdiction years later.

Appeal challenges split in federal court interpretations

In April, Maxwell formally filed her appeal with the Supreme Court, following the rejection of her claims by the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York. That court ruled the Florida-based non-prosecution agreement did not bind federal prosecutors in other states, including New York, where Maxwell was indicted.

Her attorneys argue that there is inconsistency across federal appellate courts regarding the geographic scope of such agreements. While some courts have upheld the nationwide applicability of NPAs, others, like the Second Circuit, have restricted their reach.

“The government’s argument, across the board, is essentially an appeal to what it wishes the agreement had said, rather than what it actually says,” Maxwell’s team wrote in the appeal.

The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to grant a hearing could set a national precedent on the legal reach of federal non-prosecution agreements—especially in cases involving multiple jurisdictions.

Epstein case continues to cast legal shadows

Jeffrey Epstein pleaded guilty to state-level prostitution charges in Florida in 2008 as part of the controversial non-prosecution deal. He later faced renewed federal sex trafficking charges in 2019 but died by suicide in jail while awaiting trial.

Maxwell’s 2022 conviction followed a high-profile federal trial in New York. Prosecutors accused her of grooming and recruiting underage girls for Epstein between 1994 and 2004. She was found guilty on five federal counts, including sex trafficking of a minor and conspiracy charges.

The broader Epstein case has remained a source of public scrutiny and political debate—particularly over how Epstein’s wealth, power, and legal connections may have influenced the criminal justice process.

DOJ responds, says Maxwell not protected by prior deal

The U.S. Department of Justice strongly pushed back against Maxwell’s claim that the Epstein agreement should apply to her case.

In a brief submitted to the Supreme Court on July 14, the DOJ stated:

“Petitioner was not a party to the relevant agreement. Only Epstein and the Florida U.S. Attorney’s Office were parties.”

Legal experts note that even if Epstein’s NPA had language referencing co-conspirators, there is a legal question as to whether individuals not explicitly named can benefit from such protections without formal inclusion or separate agreements.

Political undertones linger

Maxwell’s legal efforts come amid renewed public interest in how the Epstein case was handled during previous administrations. Although the Supreme Court brief does not directly mention politics, Maxwell’s legal team indirectly appealed to former President Donald Trump, referencing his business reputation.

“President Trump built his legacy in part on the power of a deal – and surely he would agree that when the United States gives its word, it must stand by it,” Markus said.

Notably, Maxwell has also met with Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche in recent months, according to multiple reports. However, those discussions were not referenced in her latest Supreme Court filing and their substance remains unclear.

Next steps: Will the Court weigh in?

The U.S. Supreme Court is expected to review the petition in its upcoming session and determine whether to hear the case. If the justices accept the appeal, the case could provide clarity on the federal government’s obligations under non-prosecution agreements—and whether such deals can be enforced across jurisdictions.

If the Court declines to take the case, Maxwell’s legal avenues for overturning her conviction would be effectively exhausted.

Until then, Maxwell remains incarcerated at FCI Tallahassee, a federal prison in Florida. Her case, closely tied to one of the most notorious sex trafficking scandals in recent American history, continues to spark legal, political, and public interest.

Source: CNN – Epstein accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell urges Supreme Court to overturn her conviction

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July 23, 2025 – 5:10 PM

Roy Black, one of the most respected criminal defense lawyers in the U.S., has died at the age of 80. Known for representing high-profile clients like William Kennedy Smith, Justin Bieber, and Helio Castroneves, Black earned a reputation for winning difficult cases and mentoring a generation of attorneys. His death was confirmed Tuesday by longtime law partner Howard Srebnick.

A career built on courtroom victories

Roy Black first rose to national attention in 1991 when he successfully defended William Kennedy Smith, a nephew of the Kennedy political dynasty, in a highly publicized rape trial. The case, broadcast live on national television, marked a turning point in televised courtroom coverage and cemented Black’s status as a legal heavyweight.

The trial, held in Palm Beach, included graphic testimony and widespread media coverage. A blue dot was famously used on-screen to protect the identity of the accuser. Smith was ultimately acquitted. He later became a physician and co-founded an organization that works to ban landmines and support their victims.

High-profile clients and headline cases

Over the years, Roy Black defended a long list of celebrities, athletes, and public figures.

Justin Bieber

In 2014, Black represented pop singer Justin Bieber in a Miami case involving DUI allegations and drag racing. The singer eventually pleaded guilty to lesser charges — misdemeanor careless driving and resisting arrest — avoiding more serious penalties.

Helio Castroneves

The Indy 500-winning race car driver faced federal tax evasion charges. With Black’s legal defense, Castroneves was acquitted, clearing his name.

Rush Limbaugh and others

Black also represented conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh, Miami police officer William Lozano (acquitted in a controversial 1989 shooting that sparked riots), and Amid Khoury, a defendant in the “Varsity Blues” college admissions scandal who was found not guilty.

Colleagues pay tribute

Howard Srebnick, who worked alongside Black for more than 30 years, said in an email:

“For more than 30 years, Roy was my teacher, mentor and friend. The losses I feel personally and professionally are immeasurable.”

Fellow Miami defense lawyer David O. Markus compared Black to basketball legend Michael Jordan, calling him the “GOAT” — the greatest of all time — in the legal field.

“He worked harder than any lawyer I know. And he outlawyered every prosecutor he ever went up against. His impact on criminal defense is beyond measure.”

Jackie Perczek, another partner, said Black taught her that lawyers have a duty to “fiercely battle the oppressors and support the underdog.”

“This generation and many to come stand on his shoulders,” she said.

Beyond the courtroom

In addition to trying cases, Roy Black was a prolific writer and frequent guest on national television shows. He shared legal insights through articles and commentary that reached wide audiences across the country.

He also left a personal mark through mentorship and his dedication to justice. Many young lawyers credit their careers to his guidance and example.

A lasting legacy

Roy Black is survived by his wife, Lea Black, whom he met during the Kennedy Smith trial while she was serving as a juror. She later became a public figure on the reality show The Real Housewives of Miami. They have one son, RJ, and he is also survived by his daughter, Nora.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Roy Black’s name will continue to be remembered in legal circles across the country. His decades of courtroom work, celebrity cases, and strong belief in defending the underdog have shaped the practice of criminal defense in America.

For more legal news and updates on influential figures in U.S. law, stay tuned to our latest stories.

Source: AP News  – Prominent Miami defense attorney Roy Black dies, represented William Kennedy Smith in rape trial

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A wealthy British woman and her partner with a violent past have been found guilty of killing their baby daughter after going on the run across the UK. The couple, Constance Marten and Mark Gordon, lived in a tent during winter and refused help from authorities. Their newborn, Victoria, died while in their care — and her body was later found in a grocery bag inside a shed.

This heartbreaking case has shocked the UK and raised serious questions about child protection, domestic violence, and how far people will go to avoid the system.

A Troubled Couple on the Run

Constance Marten, 38, came from a wealthy, aristocratic family. She was privately educated, worked as a journalist, and once had ties to the British royal family. Mark Gordon, 51, had a very different background — he was a convicted rapist with a long criminal history, including armed kidnapping and sexual battery in the U.S., for which he served 22 years in prison.

Despite warnings from child protection services and a history of domestic violence, the couple stayed together. A judge had already taken their four older children into care due to serious concerns about their safety. But instead of accepting help when Marten became pregnant again, the couple decided to disappear.

A Desperate Journey Ends in Tragedy

In January 2023, police found a burned-out car with signs that someone had recently given birth nearby. That discovery sparked a 53-day nationwide search for Marten, Gordon, and their baby. During that time, the couple traveled by taxi across England, avoiding authorities, throwing away phones, and refusing to use their bank cards.

They were eventually seen living in a tent in freezing temperatures near Brighton. Social workers had previously warned them that it was unsafe to keep a baby in a tent, but they continued anyway. On February 27, the couple were finally arrested in a store. Baby Victoria was not with them.

Two days later, police found her body hidden in a shed. She had likely died weeks earlier, though the exact cause of death is unknown. A pathologist said she had been exposed to cold and was not properly dressed.

Found Guilty of Manslaughter

This week, after two separate trials, Marten and Gordon were found guilty of gross negligence manslaughter. They had already been convicted of child cruelty charges in 2024. Both had acted in ways that put their child at serious risk, even though they had opportunities to seek help.

“Their reckless actions were driven by a selfish desire to keep their baby no matter the cost,” said Samantha Yelland of the Crown Prosecution Service. “The result was her tragic death.”

Court officials described their behavior throughout the trial as disruptive. Marten went through 14 different lawyers. Gordon tried to represent himself at one point. Both frequently refused to appear in court or cooperate with proceedings.

A Preventable Death

Detectives and prosecutors said this was a deeply sad and avoidable case. “There was ample opportunity for them to have sought help,” said Det. Insp. Dave Sinclair, the officer who first responded to the case. “And potentially there may have been a different outcome.”

The couple will be sentenced later this year.

Source: CNN – A runaway British aristocrat and convicted rapist were found guilty over their baby’s death. Here’s how their story unfolded

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Live Updates — July 2, 2025 | New York City
After three days of deliberation, a federal jury has reached a verdict in the high-profile sex trafficking trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs.

The decision comes following weeks of explosive testimony, disturbing video evidence, and intense scrutiny over Combs’ alleged involvement in a decades-long pattern of abuse, coercion, and trafficking.

As of this update, the verdict has not yet been publicly announced in court.

Key Details About the Case

The Charges Against Combs

Sean Combs, 55, pleaded not guilty to the following:

• One count of racketeering conspiracy
• Two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion
• Two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution

Notably, midway through the trial, prosecutors dropped attempted arson and kidnapping from the racketeering theory to focus their case.

If convicted, Combs could face life in prison.

What Prosecutors Argued

Since the trial began in early May, prosecutors presented testimony from 34 witnesses, including two of Combs’ former girlfriends. These witnesses described being pressured into multi-day sex parties involving hired male sex workers—referred to as “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”

Jurors were shown roughly 20 minutes of video footage from these events, which prosecutors say depict non-consensual acts and a coercive environment.

The Defense’s Case

Combs’ legal team painted a different picture. They did not deny his history of volatile behavior or acknowledge that he may have been, in their words, “a bad boyfriend.” But they firmly rejected all criminal accusations, claiming the events were part of a consensual “swingers lifestyle.”

Combs himself chose not to testify during the trial.

Cassie’s Powerful Testimony

Among the most talked-about moments was the testimony of R&B singer Cassie, who dated Combs for nearly a decade. She described a relationship consumed by physical abuse and Combs’ obsession with voyeuristic sex acts.

Cassie’s account served as the prosecution’s emotional and psychological centerpiece, drawing national headlines and public outcry.

What’s Happening Now

• 12 min ago: The jury confirmed they have reached a unanimous verdict on all charges.
• 6 min ago: The judge entered the courtroom and reminded all present to maintain decorum as the verdict is read.
• 3 min ago: The jury began entering the courtroom.

The court is expected to announce the verdict shortly.

What’s at Stake

This trial marks a pivotal moment in the career—and legacy—of Sean Combs. Once celebrated as a music and business icon, he now faces the possibility of life behind bars.

Stay tuned for live updates as the verdict is formally delivered in court.

Source: AP News – Live updates: Jury reaches verdict in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sex trafficking trial

The post Jury Delivers Verdict in Diddy’s Explosive Sex Trafficking Case appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

NEW YORK — After just two days of deliberations, the jury in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ high-profile sex trafficking trial says it has reached a verdict on four out of five charges — but remains deadlocked on the most serious count: racketeering conspiracy.

Late Tuesday afternoon, jurors sent a note to the court saying they were stuck on the racketeering charge due to “unpersuadable” views on both sides. Instead of accepting a partial verdict, Judge Arun Subramanian instructed the panel to keep deliberating, calling it too early to give up on reaching a decision across the board. Deliberations are set to continue Wednesday.

What We Know So Far:

• Guilty or Not Guilty? The jury has reached a verdict on:
  • Two counts of sex trafficking
  • Two counts of transportation for prostitution
• But they remain undecided on:
  • Racketeering conspiracy — the most complex and serious charge in the case.

What’s at Stake:

• A conviction on the sex trafficking charge carries a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison.
• The transportation for prostitution charge could mean up to 10 years.
• Racketeering conspiracy alone carries a potential life sentence.

Diddy Appears Subdued in Court

Combs, 55, looked somber after the note from the jury was read. He quietly read a piece of paper handed to him by his attorney, Marc Agnifilo, and sat in silence for several minutes before leaving the courtroom.

As he exited, he turned to his supporters, blew a kiss, tapped his chest — a daily gesture of gratitude — and briefly spoke to his mother, telling her, “Love you. I’ll be all right.” Marshals then escorted him out.

The Charges Against Combs

Federal prosecutors allege that Combs used his wealth, fame, and intimidation to control two girlfriends, coercing them into drug-fueled sex acts involving male sex workers — what insiders allegedly referred to as “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”

Combs has pleaded not guilty. His defense argues that prosecutors are trying to criminalize a consensual — albeit controversial — swinger lifestyle. At worst, they claim, his behavior may rise to domestic violence, but not federal crimes.

Why the Racketeering Charge Is So Complicated

Racketeering conspiracy is proving to be the trial’s toughest hurdle. To convict, jurors must agree that Combs ran a “criminal enterprise” — and that he committed (or conspired to commit) specific crimes like kidnapping, drug distribution, arson, or others as part of that operation.

The jury’s difficulty may stem from just how broad and layered that charge is. Earlier in the day, they even asked the judge to clarify the definition of drug distribution — a key element in the racketeering count.

Spotlight on Cassie’s Testimony

Jurors also requested to review testimony from one of the trial’s most critical witnesses: R&B singer Cassie, Combs’ longtime ex-girlfriend, born Casandra Ventura.

The jury asked to revisit her emotional account of being beaten, kicked, and dragged by Combs at a Los Angeles hotel in 2016 — an attack captured on now-infamous security footage. They also wanted her testimony about:

• Being kicked off Combs’ yacht at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival after he accused her of stealing drugs.
• A disturbing threat to release explicit videos of her during their return to the U.S.
• Her interaction with stripper Daniel Phillip, who described her as terrified after allegedly being assaulted by Combs at a New York hotel.

Phillip testified that Cassie jumped into his lap and downplayed the danger she was in, telling him, “It’s OK. I’m fine, I’ll be OK.”

Trouble in the Jury Room?

The jury has had its share of internal friction. On Monday — just an hour into deliberations — the foreperson raised concerns about one juror’s ability to follow the judge’s instructions. The judge responded by urging jurors to keep deliberating in good faith and stick to the legal guidelines provided.

What’s Next?

All eyes are now on Wednesday, when jurors return to tackle the racketeering conspiracy count. Until they reach a unanimous decision — or tell the court they’re hopelessly deadlocked — the partial verdict will remain sealed.

Stay tuned for updates as the jury continues deliberations in one of the most high-profile celebrity trials in recent memory.

Source: AP News – Jury reaches verdict on 4 of 5 counts in Diddy trial but is told to keep deliberating

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Harvey Weinstein, the disgraced former Hollywood mogul, was convicted on Wednesday of one of the most serious charges in his retrial for sexual crimes. The verdict, however, was split: while the jury found Weinstein guilty of forcibly committing a sex act against former production assistant Miriam Haley, they acquitted him of another criminal sex act charge involving former model Kaja Sokola. Additionally, jurors could not reach a decision on a third charge—rape—related to hairstylist and actor Jessica Mann.

A Split Verdict with a Heavy Impact

The partial verdict has brought a sense of vindication to Weinstein’s accusers and prosecutors, but also a form of relief for the defendant. While the case has been a major point of contention, Weinstein’s conviction on the charge involving Haley provides a crucial sense of justice for the victims of his alleged abuse.

The retrial, which took place in the same Manhattan courthouse as the original 2020 trial, had its fair share of drama. Weinstein himself became unusually vocal, requesting the judge to end the trial, claiming that his life was “on the line” and that the proceedings were “not fair.” The emotional outburst added to the tension surrounding the trial, as the jury faced challenges in reaching unanimous verdicts.

The Background: From Hollywood Titan to Criminal

Weinstein, once one of Hollywood’s most powerful figures, helped produce numerous Academy Award-winning films, including Shakespeare in Love and The English Patient. His fame was matched only by his deep ties to the Democratic Party, where he was a prominent donor. However, Weinstein’s empire began to crumble when in 2015, an Italian model accused him of groping her in his New York office. No charges were filed at the time, but the allegations were the beginning of a cascade of similar accusations.

In 2017, the floodgates opened, with The New York Times and The New Yorker publishing explosive reports on decades of sexual harassment and assault allegations against Weinstein. The #MeToo movement, which gained global momentum, was ignited by the courage of women who came forward to accuse powerful men like Weinstein. In 2020, Weinstein was convicted in New York on charges of criminal sex acts and rape, but that conviction was overturned in 2022 by New York’s highest court, setting the stage for this retrial.

The Retrial: A Legal Tug-of-War

This retrial wasn’t a simple replay of the first. Some of the additional accusers from the previous trial were excluded from testifying, but the case still took a dramatic turn with new allegations, including Sokola’s charge that Weinstein forced her into oral sex when she was 19. The tension in the courtroom was palpable, with many of Weinstein’s accusers giving intense, emotional testimonies. Sokola, visibly shaken, was confronted with passages from her private journal. Mann pointed at Weinstein in anger as she walked past him, while Haley cursed at him from the witness stand.

While the trial offered new layers of complexity, it also revealed how the women, all with connections to the entertainment industry, grappled with their experiences. They shared how Weinstein used his influence to lure them into situations where they were sexually assaulted—often after promising career opportunities. Yet, the accusers also testified that they struggled with their decisions to continue engaging with Weinstein, sometimes out of fear, career ambitions, or attempts to suppress the trauma for the sake of professional survival.

The Defense: A Different Narrative

Weinstein’s defense team attempted to paint a very different picture. They argued that the women involved were ambitious “wannabes” who willingly engaged with Weinstein in pursuit of opportunities. According to the defense, these women later recast consensual encounters as criminal acts in the hopes of securing settlement money or gaining validation through the #MeToo movement.

Throughout the trial, Weinstein chose not to testify, leaving his legal team to argue his case. His lawyers repeatedly insisted that the accusations were part of a broader narrative of women seeking personal gain after the fact.

Weinstein’s Legacy and the #MeToo Movement

The trial brought the spotlight back to Weinstein at a time when #MeToo is still very much a part of public discourse. His name is tied not only to some of Hollywood’s greatest cinematic achievements but also to one of the most significant social movements of the 21st century. #MeToo helped shift the conversation around sexual misconduct, holding powerful men accountable and giving a voice to those who had been silenced for years.

As this retrial continues, it’s clear that while Weinstein’s legal battles are far from over, the cultural and societal impact of his actions will resonate for a long time to come.

What’s Next?

Jurors are still deliberating the charge of rape involving Jessica Mann, which carries a lesser penalty than the other charges. Whether they will reach a verdict on that charge remains to be seen. As for Weinstein, who remains incarcerated, his legal team has indicated plans to appeal the conviction, making this saga far from over.

Ultimately, this case represents more than just one man’s downfall—it is a significant chapter in the ongoing effort to hold those in power accountable and to bring justice to victims of sexual violence.

Source: CNN – Jury convicts Harvey Weinstein of top charge in the retrial of his landmark #MeToo sex crimes case

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NEW YORK — In an emotional day in court, a woman who dated Sean “Diddy” Combs tearfully described how the music mogul allegedly ignored her pleas to end drug-fueled sex marathons, pushed her into repeated encounters with other men, and manipulated her into staying silent.

Testifying under the pseudonym “Jane,” she recounted deeply troubling experiences spanning their three-year relationship. Her testimony, now in its second day, echoes previous allegations made by R&B singer Cassie, another of Combs’ former partners.

A Dark Relationship: “He Told Me to ‘Finish Strong’”

Jane described how Combs, 55, would orchestrate marathon sex sessions — sometimes lasting up to three days — involving her and multiple men while he watched. She said she tried to signal discomfort through subtle cues: saying she was tired, making faces, or gesturing. But he allegedly pushed her to keep going, even telling her to “finish strong.”

When asked why she didn’t say “no” directly, Jane sobbed, “I just, I don’t know.” She said Combs would shut down conversations about stopping the encounters, which she described as “dark” and “sleazy.”

Drug Use and Emotional Manipulation

Jane testified that Combs frequently supplied her with drugs like ecstasy and expected her to participate in these “hotel nights.” She said she once blacked out during an encounter and recalled vomiting after being with two men in a row. Combs reportedly told her, “You’ll feel better now that you’ve thrown up. So let’s go,” before urging her to sleep with a third man.

“I was repulsed,” she said.

Despite the trauma, Jane admitted she stayed, craving the brief, tender moments alone with Combs afterward. “I would really fight to block out how sad I was after,” she said. In unsent messages saved to her phone, she wrote, “I don’t want to do drugs for days and days and have you use me to fulfill your freaky, wild desires in hotel rooms.”

Financial Control and a Fear of Losing It All

By September 2023, Combs was paying Jane’s rent — a gesture she said became a form of control. She feared speaking out or stopping the hotel nights would mean losing her home. “That Sean would take the house away,” she told the jury. Even now, she added, Combs is still covering her rent.

Similarities to Cassie’s Allegations

Jane’s account closely mirrors that of Cassie Ventura, who settled a separate civil case against Combs. Cassie testified about similar “freak-offs” — a term Jane said she never used, preferring “hotel nights.” Both women reported suffering from urinary tract infections and physical pain as a result of the encounters.

A Chilling Audio Recording

Jurors heard a recording of one of Jane’s encounters. In it, she asks a man to wear a condom, but said Combs “guilt-tripped” her out of it — because it wasn’t something “he wanted to see.”

Jane also revealed that Combs used her as a drug mule at least twice, asking her to smuggle pills from Los Angeles to Miami in her checked luggage. She admitted to using some of the drugs with him.

Defense Pushes Back, Targets Witness Credibility

Combs has pleaded not guilty to federal charges, which allege he ran his business as a criminal enterprise that enabled the abuse of women for over 20 years. He faces 15 years to life if convicted.

His legal team insists all sexual activity was consensual and part of a swinger lifestyle. In opening statements, his attorneys acknowledged Combs’ “bad temper” but rejected any suggestion of criminal conduct.

The defense has also questioned the credibility of key witnesses. Earlier this week, they grilled graphic designer Bryana “Bana” Bongolan — a friend of Cassie — who claims Combs once dangled her off a high-rise balcony. Defense lawyers questioned the timeline of her allegation, pointing out Combs was on tour at the time. Bongolan stood by her story, saying she couldn’t recall the exact date, but “had no doubt it occurred.”

A Trial That Could Shake the Music Industry

As the trial progresses, a pattern of alleged coercion, manipulation, and abuse continues to emerge from multiple women. With more testimony expected in the coming days, the spotlight remains firmly on one of the most powerful names in the music industry — and a court case that could redefine his legacy.

Source: AP News – Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ ex-girlfriend sobs in court, saying he ignored her pleas to end sex marathons

The post Diddy’s Ex Testifies: “I Was Forced Into Drug-Fueled Sex Marathons” appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

In a surprising development, pop star Taylor Swift has been subpoenaed in the ongoing legal battle between actress Blake Lively and It Ends with Us director and star Justin Baldoni. The case has garnered widespread media attention, especially after Swift’s name was linked to a text exchange included in Baldoni’s $400 million defamation countersuit against Lively and her husband, actor Ryan Reynolds.

Swift’s Unlikely Involvement

The subpoena stems from text messages revealed in January, where Baldoni and Lively discuss the film’s script. One message, which included the name “Taylor,” caught public attention. In the text, Baldoni praised Lively’s contribution to the film, saying, “I really love what you did. It really does help a lot. Makes it so much more fun and interesting. (And I would have felt that way without Ryan and Taylor).” He also added a wink emoji, indicating his appreciation of her work.

Swift Responds to Subpoena

Swift’s spokesperson was quick to clarify her involvement. “Taylor Swift never set foot on the set of this movie, she was not involved in any casting or creative decisions, she did not score the film, she never saw an edit or made any notes on the film, and was traveling around the globe during 2023 and 2024,” the representative told CNN.

The spokesperson also explained that Swift’s connection to It Ends with Us was limited to licensing one of her songs, “My Tears Ricochet,” for the film’s soundtrack. The spokesperson further suggested that the subpoena, which brings Swift’s name into the public eye, is an attempt to create sensational headlines rather than focusing on the actual legal issues at hand.

Allegations and Defamation Lawsuit

The core of the legal dispute centers around Lively’s accusations of sexual harassment and retaliation against Baldoni. Lively initially filed her complaint with the California Civil Rights Department in December, which was followed by a lawsuit in January. Lively claims Baldoni and his PR team orchestrated a campaign to damage her reputation during the promotion of the film.

In February, Lively’s amended complaint expanded on the allegations, suggesting other women had raised similar concerns about Baldoni’s behavior on set. Baldoni has firmly denied the accusations.

Alongside Lively, Ryan Reynolds is named in Baldoni’s $400 million defamation lawsuit. Baldoni alleges that Reynolds interfered with the film’s script, rewriting a scene and making changes without permission. He also claims Reynolds took shots at him in public, particularly mocking him through the Deadpool character in a manner that he believes was meant to embarrass him.

The Legal Back-and-Forth

Reynolds has sought to have himself removed as a defendant from Baldoni’s suit, arguing that the accusations against him are baseless and a result of personal grievances. His legal team filed a motion stating that the claims against him were nothing more than “hurt feelings.”

As the legal drama unfolds, the trial is not expected to take place until March 2026, leaving plenty of time for the media circus to continue.

Lively and Reynolds Speak Out

In response to the subpoena and the ongoing legal developments, a spokesperson for Lively said that Baldoni’s legal team was “turning a case of sexual harassment and retaliation into entertainment for the tabloids.” They expressed frustration with how the matter is being publicly handled, emphasizing that it is a serious legal issue, not a spectacle for public consumption.

What’s Next?

As the situation continues to evolve, many are watching closely to see how the case unfolds. While Taylor Swift’s subpoena may be the latest twist in a highly publicized dispute, it’s clear that the real focus remains on the serious allegations being made against Justin Baldoni. The upcoming trial in March 2026 promises to bring further revelations in this ongoing saga.

Source: CNN – Taylor Swift subpoenaed in Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni case

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A Milwaukee County judge has been arrested and charged with obstructing immigration enforcement, intensifying tensions between federal authorities and local courts over immigration policy.

On Friday morning, FBI agents arrested Judge Hannah Dugan outside the Milwaukee County Courthouse. The arrest stems from allegations that she helped Eduardo Flores-Ruiz, a man facing domestic violence charges, evade federal immigration agents after a court hearing.

According to a federal affidavit, Judge Dugan learned that ICE agents were in the courthouse hallway to detain Flores-Ruiz, a previously deported man who had reentered the U.S. illegally. Visibly frustrated, she allegedly directed her clerk and then personally escorted Flores-Ruiz and his attorney through a restricted jury door—typically reserved for court staff and in-custody defendants.

Moments later, ICE agents caught Flores-Ruiz outside the courthouse after a brief foot chase.

Judge Dugan now faces federal charges for:

• Concealing an individual to prevent discovery and arrest
• Obstructing or impeding an official proceeding

She was briefly held before being released from custody later Friday. Her attorney, Craig Mastantuono, said Dugan “wholeheartedly regrets and protests her arrest,” and argued it was not made in the interest of public safety.

The arrest has sparked immediate backlash and drawn national attention:

• Gov. Tony Evers criticized the Trump-era tactic, accusing the federal government of undermining the judiciary through intimidation.
• Sen. Tammy Baldwin called the arrest a “drastic move” that could erode the separation of powers.
• Attorney General Pam Bondi, defending the arrest, said, “If you break the law, we will follow the facts and prosecute you.”
• Protesters gathered outside the courthouse, where Emilio De Torre of Milwaukee Turners warned the action could scare off vulnerable individuals from appearing in court.

Flores-Ruiz, 30, was in court facing three counts of misdemeanor domestic battery. According to police reports, he struck two women who tried to intervene during a fight with a roommate over loud music.

If convicted, he faces up to nine months in jail and a $10,000 fine for each charge. Court records show that he had been deported in 2013 but later reentered the country unlawfully. A federal judge ordered him held in custody ahead of trial.

This case mirrors a similar high-profile incident in Massachusetts during Trump’s first term, where a judge was accused of helping an undocumented immigrant escape ICE via a courthouse backdoor. That case was eventually dropped under the Biden administration, but it had already fueled debate over the role of local courts in federal immigration matters.

In January, the Justice Department signaled it would revive efforts to prosecute local officials who obstruct immigration enforcement, citing laws related to conspiracy and harboring undocumented individuals.

Elected in 2016 to Milwaukee County Circuit Court Branch 31, Dugan previously served in the probate and civil divisions. She earned her law degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and spent part of her legal career with Legal Action of Wisconsin and the Legal Aid Society.

Her biography describes a commitment to community advocacy and due process—principles now at the heart of a contentious legal and political battle.

Source: AP News – FBI arrests a Milwaukee judge accused of helping a man evade immigration authorities

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