Judge Arun Subramanian had to remind jurors of his instructions on the law almost as soon as the proceedings in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial began on Monday.
Jury deliberations in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial quickly hit a snag yesterday – as two notes were handed to the judge.
A jury received a message that heightened concern that they were unable to follow the 61 pages of instructions the judge had just read to them before the hearings began. Judge Arun Subramanian insists that all jurors strictly adhere to his instructions, even if the proceedings take some time.
The second note, which was sent several hours later, requested clarification regarding the drug distribution instructions, an allegation that was included in Combs’ racketeering conspiracy charge. This was addressed, and discussions are still going on. There are some chances that a decision will be reached this afternoon (UK time).
Diddy, 55, has been accused of racketeering, two counts of prostitution, and two counts of sex trafficking. He denies any wrongdoing. If found guilty, the hip-hop mogul could spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Before the jury, which consisted of eight men and four women, began deliberating, the defendant and his supporters bowed their heads in prayer in the courtroom. The musician, who has won three Grammy Awards, must now comb through his or her seven weeks of sometimes graphic and moving testimony.
The trial had been informed of Diddy’s propensity for violence and his sexual preferences, including drug-fueled “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”
Combs bowed his head with his supporters as he sat facing them in the audience while wearing his customary sweater and khakis. They applauded as they were about to finish, along with the hip-hop legend.
The star, born in New York City, has pleaded not guilty to federal charges of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking — relating to two of his ex-girlfriends — and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution for allegedly arranging to fly his girlfriends and sex workers across state lines.
Federal prosecutors and Combs’ defense team made their final attempts to persuade jurors to convict or acquit the musician in final arguments last week.
The defendant used force, fear, and intimidation to obtain what he desired, according to Assistant US Attorney Christy Slavik. He believed that the law was being overturned by his fame, wealth, and status.
She claimed that he made it his “close inner circle and a small army of personal staff, who made it their mission to advance his position of power and safeguard his reputation at all costs.”
But Marc Agnifilo, the defense attorney, refrained. He asserted that crime is not the topic here. Money is the topic. He noted that Combs’ accusers in the criminal case brought civil lawsuits against him.
Source: Mirror
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