Verdict Reached on Four Counts, But Racketeering Conspiracy Charge Stalls U.S. Federal Case

NEW YORK CITY – The high-profile sex trafficking trial of hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs took a dramatic turn Tuesday as a federal jury reached a verdict on four out of five charges, but remained deadlocked on the most serious count: racketeering conspiracy.

After more than two days of deliberations, jurors informed the court they were unable to agree on whether Combs ran a criminal enterprise involving coercion, violence, and drug distribution—core allegations tied to the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO).

Instead of accepting a partial verdict, U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian instructed the jury to continue deliberating, citing the early stage of discussions.

Inside the Courtroom: Emotional Day for Combs and Family

A visibly somber Combs, 55, listened intently as his lawyers explained the implications of the jury’s note. He was later seen exchanging a heartfelt goodbye with his mother and children, saying, “Love you” and “I’ll be all right,” before being escorted out by federal marshals.

The racketeering conspiracy charge, the most complex of the five, requires the jury to determine whether Combs led a “criminal enterprise” that committed crimes including drug trafficking, kidnapping, and arson. A conviction on this count could carry a sentence of 15 years to life in prison.

Trial Highlights and Testimony

The jury has repeatedly returned to critical testimony, particularly from Cassie Ventura, Combs’ ex-girlfriend and a central witness. They asked to review:

• Her 2016 allegations of Combs beating, kicking, and dragging her in a Los Angeles hotel, captured on security footage;

• An incident at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival, where Combs allegedly threatened to release explicit footage of her;

• Testimony from a male stripper, Daniel Phillip, who said he found Cassie “terrified” and physically shaking in a hotel room following what he believed was a violent altercation.

Earlier in deliberations, jurors also asked for clarification on how drug distribution fits within the broader racketeering conspiracy charge.

Defense Strategy: “Swinger Lifestyle” vs. Criminal Conduct

Combs has pleaded not guilty. His defense team argues that the case represents a government overreach—seeking to criminalize a celebrity’s unconventional private life. They have emphasized that, at most, the accusations amount to domestic violence, not federal felonies.

Notably, Combs chose not to testify, and the defense relied on cross-examinations of dozens of prosecution witnesses to make their case.

What Happens Next

Jurors are expected to continue deliberating Wednesday. Should they remain unable to reach a unanimous decision on the racketeering charge, the court may eventually accept a partial verdict—or declare a mistrial on the unresolved count.

This trial has attracted global attention not only because of Combs’ celebrity status, but also due to its broader implications for accountability in the entertainment industry, where abuse and exploitation allegations have become more visible in recent years.