Closing arguments in the Sean “Diddy” Combs sex trafficking trial are set to begin on Thursday, as the court barrels toward a verdict as early as next week. The hours-long arguments will summarize or cast doubt on the last seven weeks of witness testimony. But they will not include any mention of politics.
A TMZ report on Monday indicated that Combs’ lawyers “may invoke the recent conflict with Iran” in their closing argument. Sources told the outlet that the defense was considering arguing that the case against Combs was “instigated by Homeland Security Investigations” and, in TMZ’s words, “rather than worrying about what Diddy is doing with baby oil and lube, HSI should worry more about the escalating conflict with Iran.”
In preparation for summations later this week, prosecutor Maurene Comey told the judge “I would object” if the defense brought up politics, the use of government resources or the “propriety of this prosecution” during its closing argument. Preempting any questioning on whether the defense would, indeed, relate Iran or any other current affairs to the trial, Combs’ lead counsel Marc Agnifilo said, “Nothing to worry about, judge.”
After the prosecution brought 34 witnesses to the stand across 30 days, Combs’ lawyers presented his case in less than 30 minutes. Attorney Alexandra Shapiro argued for Combs’ full acquittal on all five counts, due to the government’s “insufficient evidence” related to the charges of sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution. No defense witnesses were called, and Combs stood up to tell the judge he had decided not to testify. “I’ve been wanting to tell you thank you. You’re doing an excellent job,” Combs told Judge Arun Subramanian, who chuckled and thanked Combs in return.
The Bad Boy Records mogul is pleading not guilty to his criminal charges. The jury is expected to deliver a verdict before July 4. If convicted, Combs could spend the rest of his life behind bars.