Sean 'Diddy' Combs' Defense Rests Briefly in High-Profile Sex Trafficking Trial

Attorneys argued for acquittal citing lack of evidence, while Combs, facing severe charges, opted not to testify.

Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal representatives rested their case just 20 minutes into their presentation in his sex trafficking trial on Tuesday, a stark contrast to the nearly seven weeks of arguments and testimonies put forth by federal prosecutors in New York. The prosecution wrapped up its side of the case earlier in the afternoon, having called over 30 witnesses to testify against Combs, who is accused of utilizing his celebrity status and business empire to engage in sex trafficking and other criminal enterprises related to prostitution.

Throughout the brief defense, Combs' attorneys argued that prosecutors had not succeeded in meeting the burden of proof necessary for the charges he faces, which include sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for prostitution. Combs, who has pleaded not guilty, also confirmed to the court that he would not be taking the stand in his own defense, noting that the decision was made in counsel with his lawyers. He expressed appreciation to Judge Arun Subramanian during a rare moment of speaking in court, stating he was “doing an excellent job” handling the case.

In the absence of witnesses, the defense submitted text messages between Combs and his ex-girlfriends as evidence. These communications were intended to support their claims that the women were willing participants in their relationships with Combs, described as “freak-offs” during which sexual activities were consensually enjoyed. One excerpt read aloud in court featured a message from Jane, an anonymous victim, who remarked “I always have fun” during such encounters.

Meanwhile, the defense filed a motion for acquittal, contending the prosecution failed to substantiate its claims, particularly around allegations relating to sex trafficking. Attorney Alexandra Shapiro emphasized that the alleged victims were capable individuals who could have departed the situations voluntarily, while disputing any claims of sex trafficking, suggesting that while Combs may have displayed violent behavior, “domestic violence is not sex trafficking.” The coming days are expected to feature the defense’s closing arguments, with the trial poised for more developments in a high-profile case that has gripped public attention and media scrutiny.