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Hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs wrapped a seven-week federal trial in Manhattan on June 26, 2025, facing charges including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. The prosecution delivered powerful closing arguments accusing Combs of orchestrating drug-fueled “freak-off” parties and coercive sex schemes. In response, Combs’ defense portrayed the allegations as a sensational, “swingers’-lifestyle” trial, mocking claims of trafficking as exaggerated and rooted in consensual relationships. On June 30, the 12-person jury — comprising eight men and four women — began deliberations on five counts, with one juror reportedly struggling with legal instructions. While deliberations continue, what happens if the jury issues a guilty verdict? Will Combs appeal? Here’s what an attorney explained.

A principal attorney explained how ‘an appeal is virtually automatic’ if Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is found guilty

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Jurors returned to the courtroom on July 1, 2025, in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial. They continued their work on determining guilt across five charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. Their efforts began with a procedural hurdle. They sent multiple notes seeking guidance — for example, asking the judge to clarify drug distribution elements and how prior testimony factors into the broader conspiracy charge. They also raised concerns that one juror might not be properly following the legal instructions. The judge addressed this by reminding them of their duty to adhere to his guidance. Notably, the jury has requested specific transcripts from key prosecution witnesses Cassie Ventura and Daniel Phillip. This signals an in-depth review of evidence.

As of now, they have not delivered a partial or full verdict. No counts have been finalized, and the jury continues its careful, deliberate process. There is also no indication of a hung jury or vote breakdown. Their work remains in progress, with the court awaiting either a complete verdict or a decision to return on individual charges.

If the jury finds Combs guilty, will the hip-hop mogul appeal? Victor R. Balladeres, Principal Attorney at Offit Kurman, said yes.

“In a high-stakes federal case, an appeal is virtually automatic,” he emailed to Showbiz Cheat Sheet.

“Key arguments would likely include:

  • Evidentiary rulings (e.g., admission of prior-bad-act evidence or the surveillance footage). 
  • Juror issues, especially given Mr. Combs’s fame — defense counsel have already flagged at least one disputed juror dismissal. 
  • Alleged errors in jury instructions under Fed. R. Crim. P. 51. 
  • Sufficiency of the evidence, a standard claim under Fed. R. App. P. 4(b).”

If Combs is found guilty, his legal team will likely focus on several key areas. First, they could argue that the trial was prejudiced by extensive media coverage. They may also challenge the admissibility of certain testimony, particularly that of Cassie Ventura and Daniel Phillip. Additionally, Combs’ attorneys could assert that the prosecution improperly framed consensual relationships as criminal behavior. Any procedural missteps, such as jury instructions or evidentiary rulings made by the judge, could also serve as grounds for appeal.

How to get help: In the U.S., call the RAINN National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 to connect with a trained staff member from a sexual assault service provider in your area. 

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