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USA – Jurors in New York are actually deliberating the destiny of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who’s on trial for allegedly main a prison organisation that prosecutors declare orchestrated coercive intercourse marathons, drug distribution, and different violent crimes.
The panel of eight males and 4 ladies wrapped up its first day of deliberations on Monday with out reaching a verdict. Earlier than adjourning, the jury submitted a notice to the decide requesting clarification on authorized definitions associated to drug distribution.
The high-profile trial has lasted seven weeks, gripping the nation with graphic testimonies and surprising allegations.
Disturbing Allegations
Prosecutors allege that Combs, 55, led a robust and secretive prison enterprise composed of trusted staff who acted as enforcers for his alleged misdeeds. The fees embody racketeering, intercourse trafficking, transportation for prostitution, and drug crimes. If convicted, Combs faces life in jail.
Key to the federal government’s case are testimonies from two ladies, together with Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and one other who testified anonymously as Jane. Each described years of coercion, abuse, and concern, claiming Combs used violence, intimidation, and manipulation to regulate them.
Prosecutors say the artist created a “local weather of concern,” and dedicated crimes starting from compelled labor and kidnapping to bribery and arson.
Defence Pushes Again
Combs has denied all allegations, together with his authorized group describing him as a self-made Black entrepreneur whose intimate relationships had been “difficult however consensual.”
Lead legal professional Marc Agnifilo argued that none of Combs’ associates or alleged co-conspirators had been delivered to testify in opposition to him, and emphasised that a number of witnesses had been granted immunity to testify.
He additionally acknowledged that Combs might have engaged in home violence however confused that this alone doesn’t show racketeering or intercourse trafficking.
Prosecution’s Last Phrases
In a robust closing, prosecutor Maurene Comey informed jurors that Combs acted as if he was “untouchable,” satisfied his victims would by no means communicate out.
“He was thus far previous the road he couldn’t even see it,” she stated. “The defendant by no means thought the ladies he abused would have the braveness to talk.”
She concluded, “That ends on this courtroom. The defendant will not be a god.”
Jurors should now decide whether or not Combs agreed to commit at the least two of the eight crimes tied to the racketeering cost so as to safe a conviction.
A verdict is anticipated within the coming days.
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