Diddy trial timeline: A breakdown of his arrest, key developments and verdict
Diddy’s trial. Photograph: Getty Images; Collage: Gabe Conte
The high-profile trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs captivated global attention as shocking allegations of sex trafficking and abuse were brought against one of hip hop’s most influential figures. From federal raids to a dramatic courtroom verdict, this timeline provides an in-depth look into the key milestones of the Diddy trial, the charges he faced, and what happens next.
Federal Raids on Diddy’s Homes Spark Investigation
The legal troubles for Sean Combs began to intensify in March 2024, when federal agents from Homeland Security raided multiple properties belonging to the music executive. His homes in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York were searched, leading to the seizure of mobile devices, hard drives, firearms, and alleged surveillance footage from secret “freak-off” parties. These raids set the stage for a sprawling federal investigation into allegations of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation for illegal sexual activity.
Diddy Arrested and Indicted on Sex Trafficking and Racketeering Charges
On September 16, 2024, Combs was arrested in New York City and indicted on multiple federal charges. These included racketeering, sex trafficking of adults, and interstate transportation for prostitution. He was denied bail and remanded to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn. The arrest shocked the entertainment world, with prosecutors citing mounting evidence and witness testimonies that had been building for years.
New Charges Surface Before Diddy’s Trial Begins
In April 2025, prosecutors added two more charges to the indictment—both linked to a second victim. These included a new count of sex trafficking and another for transportation to engage in illegal sexual acts. Despite the growing list of accusations, Diddy pleaded not guilty to all charges. His legal team began preparing for what would become one of the most highly scrutinized celebrity trials in recent U.S. history.
Diddy Trial Begins: Jury Selection and Start of Hearings
On May 12, 2025, jury selection commenced, eventually finalizing a panel of 12 jurors. The court hearings kicked off soon after, with the prosecution presenting a detailed narrative of Diddy’s alleged criminal behavior, backed by dozens of witnesses and extensive digital evidence. Among the star witnesses were Cassie Ventura, former associates, and industry insiders, all testifying to a pattern of abuse, control, and exploitation.
Cassie Assault Video Shocks the Courtroom
One of the most damaging pieces of evidence presented during the trial was a 2016 surveillance video showing Sean Combs violently assaulting Cassie Ventura in a hotel hallway. The court ruled the footage admissible, and it served as a critical visual reference to support multiple witnesses’ claims. The footage went viral across social media, adding to the media storm surrounding the case.
Prosecution Rests After Seven Weeks of Testimony
By June 24, 2025, the prosecution had called 34 witnesses and submitted thousands of pages of documents, digital files, and financial records. In a surprising move, Diddy’s defense team opted not to call any witnesses, signaling confidence in cross-examinations or a strategic calculation to avoid further damaging revelations. The trial moved swiftly into the final phase.
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Closing Arguments in Diddy’s Trial Highlight Contrasting Narratives
Between June 26 and 27, closing arguments were delivered. Prosecutors described Combs as the ringleader of a well-orchestrated sex trafficking network, while the defense argued that the prosecution lacked concrete evidence and relied heavily on the testimonies of embittered ex-associates. The judge issued instructions, and jury deliberations commenced shortly after.
Diddy Trial Verdict: Guilty on Two Counts, Acquitted on Others
On July 1, 2025, the jury returned a partial verdict. Sean Combs was acquitted of the most serious charges—sex trafficking and racketeering—but was found guilty on two counts of transporting women across state lines for illegal sexual purposes. Each count carries a maximum of 10 years in prison, making the total sentencing possibility up to 20 years. The verdict marked a stunning moment in the trial, with Combs visibly shaken as the court clerk read the results.
Bail Hearing and Sentencing Awaited After Diddy’s Conviction
The following day, on July 2, 2025, the court convened to discuss bail ahead of sentencing. Diddy’s legal team requested release on a $1 million bond, with strict travel and communication restrictions. Prosecutors opposed the motion, arguing that he remains a flight risk and poses a threat to other witnesses. Judge Subramanian has ordered both sides to submit written arguments before a final bail decision is made.
Sentencing is expected in the coming weeks, with legal analysts predicting a range between 21 to 51 months based on federal sentencing guidelines. However, prosecutors may seek the full maximum penalty given the seriousness of the case and its social impact.
Ongoing Civil Lawsuits and Career Fallout for Sean Combs
While the criminal trial nears conclusion, Sean Combs is far from free of legal entanglements. Several civil lawsuits remain pending, involving allegations of sexual assault, coercion, and financial manipulation dating back to the 1990s. These suits, if successful, could result in millions of dollars in damages and further reputational harm.
The verdict has also triggered backlash from sponsors and entertainment companies associated with the Bad Boy founder. Although some PR experts suggest his brand might eventually rebound, others argue that his legacy has been permanently stained by the trial’s revelations.
Diddy’s Legal Timeline Offers Stark Lessons for Celebrities and Justice
The trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs has become a cautionary tale about unchecked power, abuse, and accountability in the entertainment industry. From the dramatic federal raids to the emotional court verdict, the case has reshaped public discourse around celebrity culture, gender-based violence, and justice. With sentencing and further legal proceedings still ahead, Diddy’s future—and his legacy—hangs in the balance.
