Lawyers representing music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs argued in court that the U.S. government failed to substantiate serious allegations of racketeering and sex trafficking leveled against their client. In closing arguments delivered on Friday, Diddy’s lead attorney, Marc Agnifilo, pressed the jury to reject what he called a baseless and sensationalized case.

According to Agnifilo, federal prosecutors launched the investigation into Combs only after his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, filed a high-profile civil lawsuit demanding $30 million. “This is about money,” he said, asserting that the federal case was driven by media attention and not solid evidence. He further argued that the dispute between Combs and Ventura amounted to domestic violence an issue distinct from the criminal charges of sex trafficking, which were not originally at the core of the civil case.

Defense Challenges Evidence and Motive

The defense team sharply criticized the prosecution's approach, claiming that the government relied on salacious details from Diddy’s private life rather than proving the existence of a criminal enterprise. 

Agnifilo told the jury, “This is a fake trial,” and questioned the relevance and credibility of prosecution witnesses, suggesting none had directly tied Combs to a racketeering scheme.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurene Comey countered in a forceful rebuttal, insisting that Combs had used his fame and fortune to manipulate and exploit others over a period of years. “The defendant is not a god,” she declared. “It is time to hold him accountable.” Comey stated that the prosecution had introduced compelling evidence, including texts, audio recordings, and financial records, all pointing to a coordinated criminal operation.

Court proceedings briefly paused due to a juror's transportation delay but resumed with Combs arriving in a beige sweater, signaling support with a thumbs-up and heart gesture. The judge also warned both parties to avoid injecting unrelated political issues, such as global conflicts, into closing arguments. The case, lasting seven weeks, involves multiple charges including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for the purpose of prostitution.