Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial: Prosecutors drop multiple charges
Prosecutors have dropped several charges against Sean ‘Diddy‘ Combs in his sex trafficking trial. The news comes shortly after prosecutors rested their case against the hip-hop mogul on June 24th.
In a letter to Judge Arun Subramanian, prosecutors revealed they were removing charges that include attempted kidnapping, attempted arson, and aiding and abetting sex trafficking.
“The government understands the Court’s desire for streamlined instructions,” the documents, obtained by reporter Meghann Cuniff, began. “With that in mind, the Government has suggested ways to streamline those instructions.
“Specifically, the Government has removed instructions from the charge relating to (i) attempted kidnapping under both California and New York Law, (ii) attempted arson under California law, and (iii) aiding and abetting sex trafficking.”
The charges relate to claims that Combs blew up Kid Cudi’s car and that he kidnapped his ex-girlfriend, Cassie, and his former assistant, Capricorn Clark. However, Combs is still facing sex trafficking and forced labour charges.
“The Government is no longer planning to proceed on these theories of liability so instructions are no longer necessary,” the filing continues. “The Government has also attempted to simplify the language relating to Count One.
“A proposal, as explained in the Government’s comment bubbles, that the Government hopes not only serves the purposes of streamlining the instructions but also will avoid any confusion as to the operative agreement for Count One.”
Combs was arrested in September on charges of racketeering, sex trafficking by force, and transportation for purposes of prostitution. He pleaded not guilty to all five counts against him.
For help, advice or more information regarding sexual harassment, assault and rape in the UK, visit the Rape Crisis charity website. In the US, visit RAINN.
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