P Diddy supporters danced outside the Manhattan courthouse on Wednesday as the verdict was read out that acquitted the rapper of three out of the five charges against him
Pandemonium broke out outside court as P Diddy supporters covered each other in baby oil after the rapper’s trial came to an end.
A number of supporters and opposers of the rapper were locked in heated exchanges as they awaited news on whether Diddy would be held in custody until sentencing or released. Some ardent fans even resorted to smearing baby oil on each other, with one devotee shedding her vibrant blue wig to dance around in her underwear covered in oil.
Sean “P Diddy” Combs was cleared of three out of five charges as the jury delivered their verdict following three days of intense deliberation. The former hip-hop tycoon was acquitted of two counts of sex trafficking and one count of racketeering conspiracy, but found guilty on two charges of transportation for the purpose of prostitution.
The baby oil is a nod to the drug-fuelled sex parties, or “freak offs,” which were frequently brought up during the trial. A staggering number of baby oil bottles were discovered during a raid on Diddy’s residence in March 2024, reports the Mirror US.
Diddy has consistently maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to all charges levelled against him. He also denies any allegations of misconduct, including those made in civil lawsuits.
According to journalist Erik Uebelacker, the rapper reportedly “pumped his fists and nodded” as the trial ended. Other reports say that Diddy “faced the courtroom gallery and clapped” before he was “led out of the courtroom by marshals.”
He also “knelt down in front of his chair and bowed his head like he was praying” after hearing the news. The gallery reportedly “clapped and cheered,” while Diddy’s attorneys all hugged.
The former music icon now faces a sentence of up to 10 years in prison.
While Judge Arun Subramanian told the jurors that press are likely to speak to them about the case and told them: “There is an important reason to respect the privacy of your deliberations. That being said, the choice of whether to speak to others about the case and your personal views is up to you.”
He also thanked them for their “tremendous sacrifice” and told the jury: “I want you to know that it is inspiring to all of us. You listened, you worked together, you were here every day, rain or shine.
“You did so with no reward, other than the reward that comes from answering the call of public service. That should give all of us hope.”
Diddy’s lawyers have now argued for his release on bond ahead of sentencing. His lawyer said that it should be allowed given that he is no longer charged with sex trafficking or racketeering and said that a plane has already been chartered.
He said: “This is his first conviction, and it is a prostitution offence. He should be released. His family is here and could sign a bond. He should be released today, to go back and live at Two Star Island.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
