Prosecutors are set to deliver their final arguments in the high-profile sex trafficking and racketeering trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs on Thursday, with the defense expected to follow on Friday. Court proceedings will begin at 10 a.m., and the closing statements from both sides are anticipated to last several hours, possibly extending beyond four. Following these arguments, the jury could begin deliberations as early as Friday afternoon.

Now entering its seventh week, the trial has captured national attention with shocking allegations and emotional testimony. 

Combs and his defense team appeared composed and optimistic in court on Wednesday, as both sides wrapped up procedural matters related to the jury instructions. 

These guidelines will inform the panel’s decision-making on five federal charges, including those brought under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act.

Key Charges Narrowed Ahead of Jury Deliberations

During a crucial session on Wednesday, prosecutors announced they would drop three elements originally tied to the RICO charge: attempted kidnapping, attempted arson, and aiding and abetting sex trafficking. The decision reflects a strategic recalibration by the government as it gears up for the final phase of the trial.

The prosecution’s case unfolded more swiftly than initially predicted. They called 34 witnesses, including sex workers, former staff, and the central accuser, singer Cassie Ventura. Their testimonies aimed to depict a troubling pattern of exploitation, alleging that Combs used a combination of intimidation, narcotics, and financial power to manipulate victims and safeguard his business interests.

In a notable move, the defense chose not to call any witnesses, asserting confidence that the prosecution failed to meet its burden of proof. Legal analyst Maria Melendez, known for her role in the R. Kelly case, remarked that the government stands a strong chance of securing at least one conviction in this landmark trial.