Following weeks of sensational courtroom drama and national media coverage, the federal trial of music impresario Sean “Diddy” Combs came to a stunning conclusion today with a split verdict that is sure to set off a furious legal battle. The jury convicted Diddy on two counts of transportation for prostitution in the case of the accusers known as Cassie and “Jane,” but acquitted him of the more serious charges of racketeering and sex trafficking.
Inside the courtroom, an emotional interchange erupted when the verdict was read. Diddy knelt down in prayer, then spoke to his family, “Thank you. Love you, mom. I love you, I love you, I love you..” The courtroom gallery erupted in applause, and as Granados and his team walked to the table where they had sat for the six-week trial, family members chanted “dream team” at them. His defense attorney, Mark Geragos, was hugging and crying with supporters, and lead attorney Marc Agnifilo wasted no time with his request: a direct appeal for his client, now.
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The defense depends on the judge’s decision. Despite the serious allegations of racketeering and the most serious allegations of trafficking, they argue he is not the threat or flight risk that would warrant detention. Agnifilo stressed that Diddy has his bags packed in Miami and is ready to be released under stringent conditions if he is afforded the opportunity.
Prosecutors fought back vigorously, arguing that those guilty verdicts nonetheless carry great weight and remain a reflection of serious criminal conduct. They think it’s a federal crime to transport someone for prostitution, and Diddy’s celebrity status shouldn’t play a part in the custody decision. Is a partial exoneration a sufficient basis for immediate freedom? Now, as the legal teams battle again, the judge faces a difficult choice. Fill the frame with the accused, whose fate tens of millions of people are watching, the public waits with anguish for someone to scream justice. Whether Diddy walks out free or remains in custody, this trial and its aftermath are far from over.
