Diddy Trial: Government Rests, Defense Assets "Evidence Thin"

Prosecutors rested their case Tuesday against Sean "Diddy" Combs in his sex-trafficking and racketeering trial. Diddy’s defense team promptly moved for a judgment of acquittal and rested their case. 

Defense attorney Alexandra Shapiro argued the government failed to substantiate the charges against the rapper.

Shapiro contended there was “at best, thin proof” that Diddy’s employees were involved, stating, “There’s no evidence they believed he was sex trafficking.” She described employees as merely cleaning hotel rooms, unaware of the events beyond the use of baby oil, Astroglide, alcohol, and possibly drugs.

Diddy spoke directly to Judge Arun Subramanian, saying, “I’m doing great, your honor,” and thanking him for doing “an excellent job.” When asked about his right to testify, Diddy confirmed he had discussed it thoroughly with his attorney and chose not to testify, calling it “solely my decision.”

During the six-week trial, Cassie Ventura, Diddy’s ex-girlfriend from 2007 to 2018, and another ex, testifying as Jane, described being introduced to “freak offs” or “hotel nights” early in their relationships with Diddy. Shapiro argued that Diddy concealed the sexual activities from his staff, who, upon learning of violence, tried to assist Cassie rather than protect Diddy.

Shapiro further asserted the government failed to prove racketeering, which requires evidence of bribery and corrupt intent. She noted no witnesses claimed Diddy attempted to bribe anyone to withhold information from authorities, and security personnel confirmed Cassie declined to involve police.