The jury in the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs has reached a partial verdict but remains deadlocked on the most serious charge. The 12 jurors have agreed on four counts but are unable to decide on the organized crime charge, which carries a possible life prison term.
During the federal court session in New York, tension filled the air as the hip-hop mogul, Mr. Combs, sat with head bowed and hands folded in his lap.
His lawyers offered support, occasionally putting their arms around him. Deliberations are set to resume on Wednesday morning.
Mr. Combs, aged 55, has pleaded not guilty to all five charges, which include sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
The jury reached a verdict on four counts after two days of deliberations, but the deadlock on the racketeering charge persists.
Legal proceedings and controversy
During proceedings, Judge Arun Subramanian listened to arguments from both the prosecution and the defense on how to proceed.
The prosecution proposed using an Allen charge, a set of instructions given to a hung jury to encourage a unanimous decision. However, such charges are controversial, with concerns about undue pressure on jurors.
After deliberations, the foreperson informed the judge that the jury had completed their work for the day. They will reconvene on Wednesday and possibly continue deliberations on 3 July, despite the court’s closure for the 4 July public holiday.
Over the past two months, the jury has heard from 34 witnesses, including ex-girlfriends, former employees of Mr. Combs, male escorts, and federal agents.
Known by various names like Puffy, Puff Daddy, and P Diddy, Mr. Combs is a prominent figure in the music industry. His recent achievements include releasing his fifth album and receiving recognition at prestigious award ceremonies.
Check also;
- Diddy Combs Defense Lawyers Make Closing Arguments To Jurors
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