Jurors See Explicit 'Freak-Offs' as Prosecutors Near End in Diddy Case
Jurors were shown explicit clips from "freak-offs" on Monday as the prosecution is expected to wrap up its case in the Sean "Diddy" Combs trial on Tuesday.
One juror appeared to look away while another appeared to place a hand over their mouth as the videos were played. The jurors wore headphones and watched the clips on monitors.
Prosecutors allege that Combs organized drug-fueled parties called "freak-offs" in which people were allegedly coerced into performing sexual acts. The clips featured an ex-girlfriend of Combs who testified under the pseudonym "Jane" and was in "freak-offs" on various dates, including December 2021 and October 2022.
The prosecution is expected to rest its case on Tuesday. The defense may not call any witnesses, which could set closing arguments for this week.
Why It Matters
Combs is charged with sex trafficking, racketeering and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and denies any wrongdoing.
The defense claims that all sexual relations between Combs and alleged victims were consensual. The prosecution alleges that Combs used his companies to manipulate and force women into participating in sexual acts.
What To Know
The footage of the "freak-offs" was reviewed by Joseph Cerciello, a special agent for Homeland Security Investigations, who testified on Monday that federal agents discovered 50 explicit videos in Combs' possession created from December 17. 2021, to December 21, 2021.
Other clips shown to jurors came from "freak-offs" in November 2021, February 2022, August 2022 and October 2022.
Cerciello testified that some of the encounters took place at the Trump International Hotel in New York. Jurors viewed financial and hotel records that appeared to link adult entertainer Cabral Williams, who used the stage name Sly, to Jane and Combs. Williams allegedly took a United Airlines flight paid for by Jane, and Combs wired Jane $5,000.
Prosecutors played a November 2021 voicemail sent to Combs' chief of staff, Kristina Khorram, in which Combs is heard telling her that he's out of baby oil.
"I can't believe I'm out," Combs said in the voicemail.
What People Are Saying
Defense attorney Teny Geragos: "This case is about voluntary adult choices made by capable adults in consensual relationships."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson: "[Combs] used his companies to manipulate women, forcing them with male escorts to have sex while he watched. He and his inner circle made sure he got everything he wanted."
What Happens Next
Closing arguments could happen this week. Jurors will then be tasked with reaching a verdict.
Combs is facing life in prison if convicted.
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