Sean “Diddy” Combs, the 55-year-old music mogul, was forced to defend himself before a jury in New York City. The jury returned a mixed verdict, convicting him on two of five counts. This verdict followed a seven-week trial that was highly publicized and centered on alarming claims of sex trafficking and racketeering. In November of 2023, singer, songwriter, model Cassie Ventura filed a civil lawsuit against Sean Combs. In that lawsuit, she claimed that Combs sex-trafficked her and sexually assaulted her. In an unexpected turn of events, the lawsuit was settled the next day for $20 million. This is a huge element to the ongoing high-profile case.
Cassie Ventura emerged as the prosecution’s most important witness— one whose testimony would prove to be a nightmare for Combs. On the first week of trial, she made it to the witness stand. She opened up about her experiences from a decade-long marriage to the music mogul. In her written testimony, Ventura described violent attacks and traumatic experiences. Each of these involved what she called “freak offs,” aggressive sexualized treatment to make them fuck male escorts that Combs conducted.
Douglas H. Wigdor, Ventura’s attorney, praised her courage during the trial. He noted that Ventura’s common experiences have left a deep impression. She has had an impact not only on the entertainment world, but on the movement for justice.
“By coming forward with her experience, Cassie has left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and the fight for justice. We must repeat – with no reservation – that we believe and support our client who showed exemplary courage throughout this trial.” – Douglas Wigdor
With today’s ruling, Combs has been acquitted on all three counts of the most serious charges Combs is facing. Despite this positive step forward, the verdict still leaves him facing years of jail time. Wigdor said he would have liked to see a conviction on the sex crimes and the racketeering charges. In doing so, they understand that it is a high bar to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
“He still faces substantial jail time. Of course, we would have liked to have seen a conviction on the sex crimes and RICO, but we understand beyond reasonable doubt is a high standard, and we’re just pleased that he still faces substantial jail time.” – Douglas Wigdor
As the trial commenced in May 2025, it served to further underscore still larger systemic questions about accountability, justice and healing for those who experience and survive abuse. This case is proof change is long, long overdue within this system, Wigdor said.
“This case proved that change is long overdue, and we will continue to fight on behalf of survivors,” – Douglas Wigdor
The trial’s verdict, whichever way it goes, will be a huge moment in Cassie Ventura’s life. It shines a light on the others who have endured the same fate. While Combs managed to evade conviction on the most severe allegations, he remains accountable for actions deemed unlawful by the jury.
In a separate discussion, Wigdor expanded on the significance of Ventura’s civil complaint which launched this whole criminal process. He did recognize its role in allowing a jury to convict Combs of interstate transportation for the purpose of engaging in prostitution.
“This entire criminal process started when our client Cassie Ventura had the courage to file her civil complaint in November 2023. Although the jury did not find Combs guilty of sex trafficking Cassie beyond a reasonable doubt, she paved the way for a jury to find him guilty of transportation to engage in prostitution.” – Douglas Wigdor
