Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking but Convicted on Lesser Charges Amid #MeToo Backlash

July 6, 2025
Diddy Acquitted of Sex Trafficking but Convicted on Lesser Charges Amid #MeToo Backlash
  • Sean 'Diddy' Combs was acquitted of sex trafficking and racketeering charges after a seven-week trial, but was convicted on lesser charges related to transporting escorts and former girlfriends for sex at his infamous 'freak-offs' parties.

  • Despite the criminal case outcome, many survivors and advocates, including Cassie Ventura and Caitlin Dulany, emphasized the importance of speaking out and continuing the fight for justice and accountability.

  • Legal experts criticized the prosecution's case as a failure, warning that the verdict might discourage future disclosures of abuse and misconduct.

  • Jurors were swayed by defense arguments claiming the women participated willingly and that Combs' admitted violence was not directly linked to the criminal charges, leading to the acquittals on the most serious counts.

  • Additional allegations include claims from Bryana 'Bana' Bongolan and Rodney 'Lil Rod' Jones of groping and harassment, spanning from 2016 to 2023.

  • Supporters celebrated outside the courthouse, but many survivors and advocates viewed the verdict as a setback for the #MeToo movement and efforts to hold powerful men accountable.

  • Evidence presented showed Combs threatened women, hid them in hotels, and manipulated them into degrading acts under the influence of drugs and threats of humiliating footage.

  • Combs' legal team denies all allegations, calling them false and a money grab, maintaining his innocence and confidence in winning in court.

  • While the criminal case concluded, Combs faces over 66 civil lawsuits seeking more than $55 million, with allegations dating back to the early 1990s and continuing through 2023.

  • Despite the acquittal, Combs faces potential sentencing in October, with ongoing lawsuits and damage to his reputation due to disclosures about his past relationships.

  • The jury's verdict means Combs, a billionaire and influential music producer, will not face life imprisonment and could potentially be free in about five years, despite extensive testimony about his violent and manipulative behavior.

  • Organizations like UltraViolet criticized the justice system for failing to protect survivors and hold wealthy men accountable, highlighting the emotional toll and systemic barriers victims face.

Summary based on 3 sources


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