Movies

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs verdict sparks AI snark from 50 Cent but resolve among accusers

BBG News

As a film critic, I find myself reflecting on the recent conclusion of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ much-publicized sex trafficking and RICO trial. The verdict has sparked a range of responses from fellow musicians, alleged victims, supporters, and online commentators alike.

Federal authorities have charged a prominent music executive with offenses related to human trafficking, organized crime, and procuring prostitutes prior to his ongoing criminal trial in New York. On Wednesday, the jury returned a verdict finding Combs, aged 55, guilty on two counts associated with the prostitution charge but acquitted him of the gravest charges: racketeering and human trafficking.

The divided decision marked a triumph for Combs and his legal team, as defense attorney Marc Agnifilo informed Judge Arun Subramanian that “the jury has effectively returned Mr. Combs’ life to him.

In simpler terms, Rapper 50 Cent, who has been teasing Combs on social media since allegations against him by the FBI emerged in late 2023, expressed his thoughts on the verdict in a less formal way. On Instagram, he playfully commented, “Diddy managed to outsmart the Feds! That guy is really something!

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In this instance, the verdict represents, at the very least, a partial triumph for Combs, as his legal team contended that the prosecution’s charges were excessive and they failed to substantiate their claims.

50 Cent shared an AI-like selfie after the verdict, commenting on Combs with the statement: “Combs managed to avoid the RICO charges.” He made a comparison between Combs and a gay adaptation of the organized crime boss John Gotti, who was indeed found guilty of murder and racketeering back in 1992.

On Tuesday, it appeared as if 50 Cent subtly suggested Diddy’s partial win by sharing another Instagram post. The caption read: “Diddy told me to tell you all not to worry about him, he’s got this handled.” He accompanied the message with an AI-generated image.

Lawyer for artist Cassie (whose birth name is Casandra Ventura), recognized her following the court’s decision on Wednesday. Known for her hit single “Me & U,” she was in a relationship with Combs for roughly 11 years before their separation in 2018. In November 2023, she filed a lawsuit against Combs, making her the first to publicly accuse him of rape, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. Throughout a lengthy trial, pregnant Cassie testified about her relationship with Combs and the instances where he allegedly arranged “bizarre” sexual encounters.

Lawyer Douglas Wigdor stated in a statement to The Times on Wednesday that his client played a significant role in the eventual conviction of Combs. Combs may face up to ten years imprisonment for each prostitution-related charge. He has been incarcerated since he was indicted last year.

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In an unconventional move, they employed a tactic often seen in prosecuting organized crime cases to bring charges against a renowned musician, accusing him of violent acts, threats, and bribes.

Cassie made a significant impact, both on the entertainment industry and the pursuit of justice, by sharing her story. It’s crucial to emphasize that we wholeheartedly stand behind our client, who demonstrated extraordinary bravery throughout this trial. She exhibited undeniable resilience, shining a light on the prevalence of misconduct among powerful individuals for decades without consequences.” – Wigdor stated.

According to Wigdor, Combs’ case emphasized the need for change that has been due for a long time. Additionally, he stated that his firm will continue to advocate for survivors.

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In the trial of the Combs case, the prosecution offered gruesome, awe-inspiring evidence for several weeks. Was this evidence sufficient?

Lawyer Lisa Bloom, who represents Dawn Richard (of Danity Kane) in her sexual assault lawsuit against Combs, expressed her dissatisfaction on Instagram about today’s split verdict, yet emphasized that the criminal trial differs significantly from the ongoing civil case.

Bloom stated that they would persistently pursue their argument until Dawn receives a fair and thorough resolution.

Just outside the courthouse, supporters of rapper Sean “Diddy” Combs rejoiced over his partial court victory by playfully splashing baby oil on one another, as reported by NBC News journalist Matt Lavietes. In a significant development, law enforcement officials confiscated illegal substances and over 1,000 bottles of baby oil and lubricant — along with other items — during searches at Combs’ residences in Miami and Los Angeles the previous year.

Entertainment & Arts

The federal jury declared that Sean “Diddy” Combs was innocent of charges related to sex trafficking and racketeering, yet he still has several ongoing legal disputes.

Multiple social media users showed perplexity and doubt over the jury’s verdict clearing Combs of sex trafficking allegations. One user questioned via tweet, “But isn’t that SEX TRAFFICKING? I mean, hello?

A different user, who once used Twitter, expressed confusion and asked someone with a legal background to clarify for them.

David Ring, a lawyer specializing in representing victims of sexual abuse in notable cases, expressed to The Times that he believed the authorities went too far in their attempt to file RICO charges.

Previously appointed federal attorney Neama Rahmani previously commented to The Times before Wednesday’s verdict, stating that “the prosecution’s argument lacked impact.” He further noted that this high-profile case was “the costliest prostitution trial in U.S. history,” implying a significant victory for the defense and a substantial setback for the prosecution.

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2025-07-02 23:31

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