Sean “Diddy” Combs has officially opted out of taking the stand in his current sex trafficking trial, confirming his decision to presiding Judge Arun Subramanian Tuesday (June 24).
TMZ reported on the brief exchange, where Judge Subramanian first asked the Bad Boy founder in court how he was feeling. “I’m doing great, your honor,” he replied. “I’ve been wanting to tell you thank you, you’re doing an excellent job.”
After thanking Combs for the compliment, the judge confirmed Diddy’s understanding that his choice not to take the stand was “his and his alone.” Combs replied that after discussing the matter with his team of attorneys, he made the ultimate decision not to testify.
Diddy performs onstage at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards held at Prudential Center on September 12, 2023 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Christopher Polk/Variety via Getty Images)
Diddy’s defense team opted not to call any witnesses, only presenting bits of evidence after the prosecution concluded their case Tuesday with the testimony of special agent Joseph Cerciello of Homeland Security Investigations. The prosecution’s case has included testimony from Combs’ ex-girlfriend Cassie, an ex that went by “Jane Doe” during her testimony, rapper Kid Cudi, and various former sex workers and employees of the Hip-Hop mogul.
With the defense officially resting their case, jurors were sent home until Thursday (June 26), when they will return to the courthouse to hear closing arguments.
Combs has been charged with racketeering conspiracy; sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion; and transportation to engage in prostitution, maintaining his innocence. If convicted, Combs could face 15 years to life in prison.
Leave a comment