The highly publicized federal sex-trafficking and racketeering trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs is moving into its sixth and possibly final week. Here’s what’s unfolded recently:

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⚖️ Combs Opts Not to Testify

In a strategic legal decision, Combs has chosen not to take the stand. Legal analysts suggest this move aims to shield him from intense cross-examination and avoid self-incrimination, particularly as he faces 60+ pending civil lawsuits.  

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👨‍⚖️ Juror Dismissal Sparks Controversy

A Black juror was dismissed after inconsistencies emerged regarding his residency. The judge ruled he was ineligible, despite the defense raising concerns about racial bias, as the replacement juror is white. Combs’s team has filed a mistrial request.  

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🎧 Ye (Kanye West) Reenters the Scene

Rapper Kanye West (“Ye”) has been officially allowed into the courtroom, taking a seat alongside Combs’s inner circle. He’d previously been barred for arriving unlisted. Ye has been an outspoken supporter and even appealed to Donald Trump on Combs’s behalf.  

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🎥 “Freak-Off” Videos and Text Messages in Focus

Jurors were shown additional footage—longer clips from so-called “freak-off” parties—as well as over 2012–14 text conversations between Combs and ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. These messages suggest enthusiastic participation, a key part of the defense’s consent-based argument.  

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👥 Special Agent Testimony Wraps Up

Special Agent DeLeassa Penland returned to the stand, reviewing travel logs, hotel charges paid by Bad Boy Entertainment, and digital communications linked to alleged “freak-offs.” The prosecution is expected to rest its case by week’s end.  

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⏳ Jury Deliberation Imminent

Judge Subramanian has indicated that closing arguments could begin this week, with jury deliberations possibly starting before July 4. The defense’s case is expected to be concise.  

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What Lies Ahead

• Defense Strategy: Likely to highlight inconsistencies in witness testimony and emphasize consensuality—citing enthusiastic texts and demeanor.

• Closing Arguments: Expect a showdown over narratives: criminal enterprise vs. private sexual freedom.

• Verdict Watch: If jurors don’t deliberate before July 4, it may signal the trial impacting national headlines into late June.

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The trial is reaching its climax, with powerful evidence and strategic courtroom decisions on display. As both sides prepare for closing arguments, all eyes are on where this jury’s verdict could land.