NEW YORK, June 25, 2025 – As Sean “Diddy” Combs’ blockbuster trial nears its conclusion, U.S. federal prosecutors have moved to narrow the scope of racketeering charges against the embattled music mogul.
In a strategic shift, the prosecution confirmed it will no longer pursue allegations of attempted kidnapping, attempted arson, and aiding sex trafficking as predicate acts under the RICO statute.
According to a letter filed in court and obtained by Fox News Digital, the government removed these elements to streamline jury instructions. However, legal experts assert this does not weaken the overall case.
“There are no charges being dropped,” said former federal prosecutor Neama Rahmani. “The government is simplifying the legal theories for jurors. They’re still pursuing the completed acts of kidnapping and arson—just not the attempted ones.”
The prosecution will still argue that Diddy, through his company Combs Global, committed acts of kidnapping, sex trafficking, and arson, including the alleged firebombing of Kid Cudi’s car, which remains central to the case.
Cassie Ventura’s Testimony Remains Critical
Central to the trial is the testimony of Cassie Ventura, Diddy’s former partner, who alleged she was coerced into sexually exploitative encounters during their relationship. Over four emotional days of testimony, Ventura described so-called “freak offs”—sex parties involving drugs and escorts allegedly arranged by Combs and his staff.
Jane Doe, Diddy’s more recent ex-girlfriend, testified to similar experiences.
Catch up on Cassie Ventura’s full testimony here:
➡️ Cassie Reveals Explosive Details in Courtroom Testimony
Diddy’s Defense Pushes Back
Diddy’s legal team, led by Marc Agnifilo, argued for acquittal after resting their case without calling any witnesses. They contend that inconsistent statements and lack of employee complicity undercut the prosecution’s claims.
“There’s, at best, thin proof any of the other employees participated,” said attorney Alexandra Shapiro. “There’s no evidence anyone believed he was sex trafficking.”
Additionally, prosecutors warned defense lawyers not to reference the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict during closing arguments, saying it would be an improper distraction. Judge Arun Subramanian echoed the concern, urging both sides to maintain focus on the facts.
Final Phase of Trial Begins
Both sides are set to finalize jury instructions on Wednesday, with closing arguments expected to take all of Thursday and Friday. If convicted, Combs faces decades in prison.
