Published: September 30, 2025, 14:00 EDT

Federal prosecutors are urging a New York judge to impose a prison sentence exceeding 11 years for music producer and entrepreneur Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, citing the seriousness of his crimes and ongoing fears expressed by his victims. The sentencing recommendation comes ahead of a key hearing this week, where the court will determine the final penalty following Combs’ conviction on prostitution-related charges.

Prosecutors Argue for Harsh Sentence Due to Serious Crimes

In a court filing submitted just after midnight on Tuesday, prosecutors asked the court to sentence Combs to at least 11 years and three months behind bars. They emphasized the gravity of his offenses, pointing out that similar convictions involving violence and coercion have resulted in sentences exceeding a decade.

“His crimes of conviction are serious and have warranted sentences over ten years in multiple cases for defendants who, like Sean Combs, engaged in violence and put others in fear,” prosecutors wrote.

The submission included statements from several of Combs’ accusers, many of whom described the long-lasting trauma and fear they continue to experience. Prosecutors characterized Combs as “unrepentant,” accusing him of attempting to shift blame onto his victims despite admitting to violent behavior during his trial.

Conviction on Federal Charges and Upcoming Sentencing

Combs, 55, was convicted in July of two counts of violating the Mann Act — a federal law prohibiting interstate transport for prostitution — for organizing paid sexual encounters between his girlfriends and male sex workers. Each count carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.

Although the same jury acquitted the Bad Boy Records founder of more severe charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking that could have led to a life sentence, the convictions still carry significant penalties.

Defense attorneys, however, have urged the judge to impose a much lighter sentence, requesting no more than 14 months of imprisonment. They argue that Combs has already spent nearly 13 months in detention since his arrest and has undergone significant personal changes during that time.

Sentencing is scheduled for Friday, where U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian will decide Combs’ fate.

Defense Claims Rehabilitation and Changed Behavior

In their presentence submission, Combs’ legal team claimed that the music mogul has transformed during his time in a Brooklyn federal detention facility. They said he has been subjected to constant suicide watch and has learned to manage conflicts without violence, even when confronted with threats from other inmates.

According to the defense, Combs has also recognized the role of substance abuse — including prescription medication — in his past violent behavior. They argue that his detention has been a significant punishment and that he deserves a second chance.

Victims Testify to Abuse and Lasting Trauma

Prosecutors counter that Combs is attempting to cast himself as a victim and insist the court should focus on the people harmed by his actions. “He is not the victim,” they wrote. “The Court should focus on the very real effects that the defendant’s conduct had on the lives of the actual victims.”

During the trial, two of Combs’ former partners testified that they were coerced into participating in drug-fueled sex events with male sex workers while Combs watched and sometimes recorded the encounters.

R&B singer Casandra ‘Cassie’ Ventura testified that she suffered physical abuse throughout their decade-long relationship, including being beaten when she displeased him. Another former girlfriend, identified as “Jane,” said she was pressured into sexual activity and described an incident where Combs allegedly put her in a chokehold and punched her in the face.

Cassie’s Account: Fear, Abuse, and Ongoing Trauma

In a letter included with the prosecution’s filing, Ventura described the profound impact Combs’ abuse had on her life. She recounted testifying while nine months pregnant about the “most traumatic and horrifying chapter” of her life, saying that from the age of 19, Combs used “violence, threats, substances, and control over my career to trap me in over a decade of abuse.”

Ventura also detailed how Combs’ control left her physically and emotionally drained, stating that sex acts became her “full-time job” and the only way to maintain his approval.

She added that the trauma continues to affect her daily life. “I still suffer from nightmares and flashbacks and require psychological care to cope,” Ventura wrote. “My fears that Sean Combs or his associates will come after me and my family are my reality.”

Ventura said she has relocated her family outside the New York area and lives in hiding, fearing retaliation if Combs is released.

Court Rejects Bail, Citing Flight Risk and Danger

Following Combs’ conviction, Judge Subramanian immediately denied a defense request for bail. He rejected a subsequent $50 million bail proposal in August, ruling that Combs had failed to prove he was not a flight risk or a danger to the community. The court also found no “exceptional circumstances” that would justify release after a conviction.

Prosecutors allege that Combs exploited his fame, wealth, and influence to manipulate and coerce his victims into participating in sexual performances, which he referred to as “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”

With sentencing just days away, the case has intensified public debate around celebrity accountability, abuse of power, and justice for survivors. The decision on Friday will determine whether one of the most influential figures in hip-hop will spend more than a decade in prison.

Source: AP News – Prosecutors seek over 11 years in prison for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

The post Prosecutors Push for Over 11-Year Prison Sentence for Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs in Prostitution Case appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

Sean “Diddy” Combs walked away from his high-profile federal sex trafficking trial with a mixed verdict: convicted of two lesser federal crimes but acquitted of the most serious charges that could have put him behind bars for life.

On Wednesday, a New York jury found Combs guilty of two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution but not guilty of racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking. Although Combs now faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years in prison, legal analysts suggest his time behind bars could be much shorter.

Here’s a breakdown of what the verdict means—and what comes next.

Partial Vindication for Combs, Despite Felony Convictions

While the verdict still labels Combs a convicted felon, being cleared of the most serious charges—including racketeering and sex trafficking—is seen as a legal win for the hip-hop mogul.

“He has not been convicted of a crime of violence,” said CNN Legal Analyst Elliot Williams. “He beat the most serious charges. That matters.”

Prosecutors had painted Combs as the ringleader of a criminal enterprise that orchestrated “Freak Offs” and “hotel nights,” using threats, force, and manipulation to exploit women, including singer Cassie Ventura and another accuser known as “Jane.” But the jury didn’t find enough evidence to prove the RICO-related crimes or sex trafficking.

Why the Racketeering Case Fell Short

The racketeering conspiracy charge—based on the RICO Act—was a cornerstone of the prosecution’s case. But RICO cases are notoriously difficult to win, especially when a defendant is tried alone without co-conspirators on trial to support the framework of an “enterprise.”

Legal observers noted that much of the supporting evidence was circumstantial or lacked key witnesses, such as Combs’ inner circle. Jurors ultimately weren’t convinced that a criminal enterprise existed or that it committed the necessary “predicate acts” required under the law.

Acquitted of Sex Trafficking—But Not Off the Hook

Combs was acquitted of two sex trafficking charges involving Ventura and Jane, which required prosecutors to prove he used force, fraud, or coercion to compel them into commercial sex acts.

Despite graphic testimony, including surveillance footage showing Combs physically assaulting Ventura, the jury found the prosecution did not meet the legal threshold for sex trafficking. Combs’ defense acknowledged domestic abuse but argued that violence alone does not constitute sex trafficking under federal law.

Convicted of Transporting for Prostitution

The jury did convict Combs on two counts of transporting individuals across state lines for the purpose of prostitution—a more straightforward charge under the Mann Act. These charges were supported by travel records, hotel invoices, and financial statements linking Combs to the paid sexual encounters.

“There were sex acts, no one disputes that, and they were paid for,” Williams said. “And there’s a paper trail. That was far more straightforward.”

What’s Next: Sentencing and Ongoing Legal Battles

Combs now awaits sentencing, with each transportation charge carrying a maximum of 10 years. However, legal experts note that sentences rarely reach the statutory maximum.

Judge Arun Subramanian denied Combs bail, citing his history of violence and ongoing risk. Prosecutors say the music mogul has shown “no remorse” and continues to pose a threat to the victims and community.

Meanwhile, Combs still faces nearly 70 civil lawsuits, many alleging sexual misconduct and assault. Civil cases require a lower burden of proof, meaning he may continue to face legal exposure even after the criminal trial concludes.

Final Thoughts

While Combs avoided the most damaging outcomes of the federal trial, the verdict still marks a dramatic moment in his career. He’s now a convicted felon facing jail time, a tarnished legacy, and a wave of civil lawsuits.

Source: CNN – Takeaways from the verdict in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial

The post Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Found Guilty on Two Federal Charges in Sex Trafficking Trial appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

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 — 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.

For over two decades, Sean “Diddy” Combs was a dominant force in both hip-hop and the business world, transforming his musical success into a powerful empire that spanned a record label, fashion brand, TV network, and partnerships with major liquor companies. He was widely celebrated as one of hip-hop’s most astute entrepreneurs. However, as time passed, dark allegations began to emerge, shifting the narrative around the mogul.

Combs has pleaded not guilty to the accusations, denying all allegations. As jury selection for his trial begins, let’s take a look at the timeline of his rise and the legal battles that have recently overshadowed his legacy.

The Rise of Diddy: Key Milestones in His Career

• 1990: A Humble Start
  While studying at Howard University, Combs began his career in music with an internship at Uptown Records, kickstarting his journey into the entertainment industry.
• 1991: Tragedy at the Celebrity Basketball Game
  Combs was involved in organizing a celebrity basketball game at City College of New York, which ended in disaster when a crowd of thousands resulted in the deaths of nine people. A mayoral report blamed poor event planning, pointing the finger at Combs.
• 1992: Breaking Through with Mary J. Blige
  As an executive producer for Mary J. Blige’s debut album “What’s the 411?”, Combs took a key role in shaping the early 90s R&B sound.
• 1993: Bad Boy Records is Born
  After being fired from Uptown Records, Combs founded Bad Boy Records, striking a deal with Arista Records. The label became a major force in hip-hop.
• 1994: The Notorious B.I.G. and a Tragic Rivalry
  Bad Boy’s breakout moment came with the release of Ready to Die by The Notorious B.I.G. The album solidified Combs’ status in the industry. However, the East Coast-West Coast rivalry led to tensions, and soon after, rapper Tupac Shakur accused Combs and Biggie of having prior knowledge of an attack on him.
• 1997: The Murder of Biggie Smalls
  The death of Combs’ friend and protege, Biggie Smalls, in Los Angeles devastated the hip-hop world. Combs released I’ll Be Missing You in tribute to Biggie.
• 1998: Grammy Glory
  Combs earned two Grammy awards, one for his debut album No Way Out and another for I’ll Be Missing You with Faith Evans.

Expansion and Controversies: A Business Mogul’s Life

• 1999: Legal Trouble and a Scandalous Night
  Combs and girlfriend Jennifer Lopez were involved in a shooting at a New York City nightclub. Combs was later arrested on gun charges, though he was acquitted in 2001.
• **2002: Television Stardom with Making the Band **
  Combs launched the talent show Making the Band, solidifying his influence in the entertainment world.
• 2004: Super Bowl Halftime & Broadway Debut
  Performing at the Super Bowl Halftime show with Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake, Combs was at the peak of his public career. He also made his Broadway debut in A Raisin in the Sun.
• 2005: Rebranding as Diddy
  Combs shed his “Puff Daddy” persona and officially began going by “Diddy.”
• 2008: Hollywood Walk of Fame & Lawsuits
  Combs was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame but faced another legal battle after an alleged post-Oscar altercation.

The Later Years: Personal Tragedy and Legal Woes

• 2015: Arrest at UCLA
  Combs was arrested in 2015 after a confrontation at UCLA, but the assault charges were later dropped.
• 2016: Education and Philanthropy
  Combs opened the Capital Preparatory School in Harlem and pledged $1 million to Howard University, continuing his philanthropic work.
• 2017: Forbes Recognition
  Combs was named the highest-paid celebrity by Forbes, earning $130 million in a single year.
• 2018: Loss of Kim Porter
  The tragic death of Combs’ former girlfriend, Kim Porter, at the age of 47, left a lasting mark on him and their children.
• 2022: BET Lifetime Achievement Award
  Combs was honored with a lifetime achievement award at the BET Awards for his contributions to music and culture.

The Legal Battle: Accusations and Allegations

• November 2023: Cassie Lawsuit
  R&B singer Cassie filed a lawsuit accusing Combs of years of abuse, including sexual assault and rape. The case was settled, but Combs denied all accusations.
• November 2023: More Accusations Surface
  Following Cassie’s lawsuit, two additional women filed complaints, accusing Combs of similar abuse. As the number of allegations grew, Combs maintained his innocence.
• March 2024: Federal Investigation
  Federal agents searched Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami Beach as part of an ongoing investigation into the accusations.
• May 2024: Disturbing Video Emerges
  A video surfaced showing Combs attacking Cassie in a hotel hallway in 2016. He later apologized for the incident on social media.
• September 2024: Arrest and Indictment
  Combs was arrested on sex trafficking and racketeering charges, accused of using his business empire to coerce women into sexual performances. His attorneys described the charges as an unjust attack.
• May 2025: Trial Looms
  Jury selection for Combs’ trial is scheduled to begin in May 2025, as he faces a long road ahead in court.

Conclusion: The Future of a Music Mogul

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ rise from a young intern at Uptown Records to one of the most influential figures in music and business is undeniable. However, his legacy is now heavily shadowed by serious legal allegations. As his trial approaches, the world watches closely to see if the mogul will overcome the challenges ahead or if this marks the end of an era for one of hip-hop’s most iconic figures.

Source: AP News – A timeline of the rise and fall of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs

The post The Rise and Fall of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs: A Timeline of His Career and Legal Troubles appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.