After seven weeks of dramatic testimony, a jury in Manhattan is now set to decide whether music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs led a criminal sex trafficking ring or simply lived a wild lifestyle. The verdict could send him to prison for 15 years to life.

Jurors listened to disturbing accounts from former girlfriends and other witnesses. They described drug-fueled sex parties, violence, and emotional control. The jury will start deliberations on Monday.

What Charges Does Combs Face?

Combs has pleaded not guilty to five major felony charges:

One count of racketeering conspiracy
Two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion
Two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution

Prosecutors say Combs organized sex parties where women were pressured or forced to take part. They claim he used threats, drugs, and hired male sex workers to control the victims. The government also accuses him of using violence, blackmail, and arson to cover up crimes.

“He’s the leader of a criminal enterprise. He doesn’t take no for an answer,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney Christy Slavik during her final argument.

What Does the Defense Say?

Combs’ lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, painted a very different picture. He said the rapper lived an adult lifestyle that involved consensual sex and drug use. Marc argued that prosecutors exaggerated details to make Combs look like a criminal. He described the case as a “fake trial.”

What Is Racketeering and Why Is It Serious?

The most serious charge—racketeering conspiracy—comes under the federal RICO Act (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act), created in 1970 to fight organized crime.

In this case, prosecutors say Combs led a group that helped him plan or hide criminal acts for 20 years. This group allegedly included bodyguards, assistants, and staff.

To prove racketeering, the government must show that a criminal group existed and carried out repeated crimes. These crimes reportedly included sex trafficking, bribery, kidnapping, and arson.

Key Video and Witness Testimonies

One major piece of evidence was a 2016 security video. It showed Combs attacking his former girlfriend, Cassie, in a Los Angeles hotel. Cassie, whose real name is Casandra Ventura, said she was trying to leave one of Combs’ sex events—known as “freak-offs” or “hotel nights”—when he beat her.

Jurors also saw explicit video clips of sexual acts. Some showed Cassie. Others involved another woman, referred to only as “Jane.”

Both women gave emotional testimony.

Cassie’s Story

Cassie testified for four days. She said she dated Combs from 2007 to 2018. During that time, she said he pressured her into hundreds of sex events involving hired sex workers. She said she often felt she couldn’t say no.

In 2023, Cassie filed a lawsuit against Combs, accusing him of years of abuse. He settled the case in less than 24 hours. After that, dozens of other women came forward with similar lawsuits.

Jane’s Testimony

Jane testified for six days. She said she had a relationship with Combs from 2021 until his arrest in September 2023. She claimed he forced her into sex marathons with strangers while he watched.

The Associated Press doesn’t normally name sexual abuse victims unless they go public. Cassie chose to speak openly, so her name is included.

Text Messages and Other Evidence

The jury also heard text message conversations read by a Homeland Security agent. These texts came from Combs and others close to him. Some included disturbing language and details that matched witness testimony.

In total, 34 witnesses testified during the trial—all of them called by the prosecution. Combs did not take the stand in his own defense.