(NewsNation) — A jury of 12 members began their discussions on Monday regarding the federal sex crimes case against the fallen music mogul, Sean “Diddy” Combs, who is at risk of receiving a life sentence.
Judge Arun Subramanian commenced the proceedings by instructing the panel of eight men and four women on legal guidelines. This jury is now responsible for examining a lengthy seven-week trial that included testimonies from 34 witnesses.
About 10 minutes into deliberations, the jury sent a note indicating they had completed their first order of business: electing a foreperson.
What charges does Diddy face?
Combs is facing allegations involving one charge of racketeering conspiracy, two charges of sex trafficking, and two charges related to the transportation for prostitution.
He has pleaded not guilty.
What is the maximum sentence Diddy could receive?
Combs faces a maximum sentence of life in prison if convicted of racketeering and sex trafficking.
The sex trafficking charge also carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years.
Transportation for purposes of prostitution carries a maximum sentence of 10 years.
What happened in Diddy’s criminal trial?
The trial brought forth several former employees of Combs’ Bad Boy Entertainment companies, but its most noteworthy witnesses were two of his former partners — singer Casandra “Cassie” Ventura and “Jane,” a social media influencer who testified under a pseudonym.
The women said they felt pressured to engage in hundreds of sexual events, dubbed “Freak Offs” or “hotel nights,” with sex workers. These encounters were often filmed.
In their closing statements, the government painted Combs’ criminal enterprise as his “kingdom.”
While the prosecution presented a robust case, defense attorneys wrapped up theirs within hours, calling no witnesses.
Much of their argument rested on the theory that the accusers were consenting adults and were not forced to participate in Combs’ sexual events.
They relied largely on text messages between Combs and his ex-partners to show the women were willing and even arranged for the sexual encounters at times.
Defense attorneys used their closing statements to call Combs’ prosecution overkill, saying that he was being put on trial for his sexual proclivities and lifestyle choices.
What happens to Diddy’s money if he’s convicted?
If found guilty, Combs will lose it all, according to Sara Azari, a criminal trial attorney and NewsNation’s legal analyst.
Combs’ indictment also includes a forfeiture action that could result in him losing almost all of his net worth, as prosecutors have alleged that he used his money to support a criminal enterprise.
A criminal forfeiture is an action brought as part of the criminal prosecution of a defendant, according to the FBI. It requires the government to seize the property used in the commission of the crime, along with the defendant, according to the agency.
If the defendant is convicted and the property is deemed forfeitable, the court then issues an order of forfeiture.
“While we’re all focused on racketeering, because it carries 20 to life, if he’s convicted of racketeering, he loses $400 million of his net worth … so all of that gets taken by the government,” Azari said.
What happens if Diddy is acquitted?
If acquitted, Combs would walk free and his assets would be untouched.
However, the high-profile nature of the case will likely make it impossible for Combs to have a successful career moving forward, Azari said.
“Even if he’s acquitted of everything, he’s done in the entertainment industry,” she said.
The Associated Press contributed to this story.
