How many charges remain against Diddy in ongoing trial? Details explored as kidnapping, arson and more charges narrowed by prosecutors

In a key shift before closing arguments, federal prosecutors have shortened the list of charges for the jury to consider in the ongoing trial of music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs. While they've removed some claims to simplify jury instructions, main charges like s*x trafficking, racketeering, and moving people for prostitution still remain central to the case.

On June 25, 2025, prosecutors in the trial said they would stop pursuing charges of attempted kidnapping, attempted arson, or aiding in s*x trafficking as part of the racketeering case. These claims, which were once part of the racketeering charges, won't be included in the jury's instructions but are not removed from the case. Prosecutors clarified that this decision is meant to focus on what they believe are the strongest allegations.

Even with this reduction, prosecutors can still argue that completed criminal acts—such as the alleged abductions of Cassie Ventura and Capricorn Clark, and the supposed burning of Kid Cudi's car—remain valid underlying offenses under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. The RICO Act requires prosecutors to demonstrate at least two illegal acts connected to an organized group to secure a guilty verdict.

Trial nears conclusion as jury prepares to deliberate in Diddy case

The trial is nearing its conclusion, with closing arguments scheduled for June 27 and 28. A final conference was held on June 26 to settle instructions that will guide the jury during their deliberations. The jury could start its decision-making as early as June 30. During the proceedings, the prosecution called several of Diddy's former associates to testify, including past girlfriends and employees.

These witnesses shared details about alleged practices related to Diddy's business, such as organizing private meetups referred to as “freak offs” or “hotel nights.” Prosecutors claimed these events involved forced activities and were part of a larger trafficking scheme. Evidence was also presented showing that employees helped supply drugs for these gatherings.

Joseph cerciello, an agent with Homeland Security Investigations, was the last person to testify for the prosecution. His testimony concluded on June 25, marking the end of the evidence phase for both sides. Marc Agnifilo, the defense attorney, chose not to call any witnesses. Instead, the defense relied on exhibits and legal arguments to present their case. Diddy’s legal team also filed a motion for dismissal, arguing that the prosecution failed to prove their case.

Prosecutors may have dropped a few legal arguments from their case, but legal experts say the main accusations remain the same. They assert that Diddy ran a criminal operation linked to trafficking and similar crimes. The defense maintains that the evidence presented does not prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

The jury is preparing to decide, and the outcome of this high-profile trial now hinges on how they view the remaining charges and the evidence they have seen during the lengthy court process.

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