2025-07-02 00:00:47.869

A federal jury in the Sean "Diddy" Combs trial has reached a verdict on four of the five counts against the hip-hop mogul, but remains deadlocked on the most serious charge: racketeering conspiracy. The jury informed Judge Arun Subramanian that they had reached unanimous verdicts on counts 2 through 5, which include sex trafficking and transportation for prostitution, but were unable to reach a consensus on count 1, racketeering conspiracy. This charge carries the most severe penalty, with a potential life sentence. The jury's note stated that there were "unpersuadable opinions on both sides." Both the prosecution and defense requested that the judge instruct the jury to continue deliberating. The judge, instead of issuing an Allen charge (which would strongly urge the jury to reach a verdict), instructed the jury to continue their deliberations. The jury was dismissed for the day and will resume deliberations the following morning. The complexity of the racketeering conspiracy charge, requiring proof of an ongoing criminal enterprise and at least two predicate acts, was cited as a possible reason for the deadlock. The case has drawn significant attention due to the use of racketeering charges against high-profile individuals in other cases, including former President Donald Trump and musicians R. Kelly and Young Thug. Diddy has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

2025-06-24 06:01:00.609

Sean "Diddy" Combs is not planning to testify in his criminal trial, a source familiar with the matter told CNN. The decision was made recently, and while a change is possible, it's considered highly unlikely. Combs has pleaded not guilty to five counts, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking, with potential life imprisonment if convicted on the most serious charges. The trial is expected to go to the jury by Friday. Prosecutors indicated the defense isn't planning to call any witnesses, a significant change from earlier statements. Legal analyst Joey Jackson explained that testifying carries risks, with a cross-examination potentially highlighting "troubling, problematic and lawless behavior." He argued that the focus would shift to Combs's believability, not the prosecution's evidence. Closing arguments could begin Thursday, with jury deliberations starting Friday. The judge initially aimed to conclude the case before July 4th.

2025-06-21 18:01:05.977

Karen Read walked free from court, acquitted of murdering her police officer boyfriend, John O’Keefe. Met with cheers and confetti, her supporters celebrated a hard-fought victory. However, the legal battles are far from over. Read still faces a civil lawsuit filed by O’Keefe’s family, alleging wrongful death and emotional distress. The lawsuit also names two bars, accusing them of negligent alcohol service. While Read was found guilty of drunk driving and sentenced to probation and driver's education, the criminal case against her is closed. The acquittal leaves O’Keefe’s death officially unsolved, prompting questions about whether the investigation will continue. An FBI investigation into law enforcement was closed without charges, a fact that has raised eyebrows. Read’s legal costs have been substantial, exceeding $5 million, but online donations continue to support her. The case has deeply divided the community, with many expressing mistrust in law enforcement. The incident has also sparked a Netflix documentary series.

2025-03-29 12:00:47.851

The outcome of Diddy's trial may hinge on the jury selection process. TMZ's documentary, "The Downfall of Diddy: His Defense," available on Tubi, examines the factors involved in choosing a jury. Experts like Dr. Phil, a former jury consultant, emphasize the importance of finding open-minded jurors, suggesting a way to identify them is to ask if they've ever changed their minds on a strongly held belief. Jo-Ellan Dimitrius, the defense's jury consultant in the O.J. Simpson trial, highlights the need for jurors comfortable discussing sensitive topics. The documentary also includes a mock jury deliberation, showcasing the intense arguments and ultimate verdict.