ROBERT DEUTSCH / USA TODAY NETWORK
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Prosecutors in the high-profile Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs case have dropped a litany of charges against the disgraced rapper and producer just days before closing arguments were set to begin. Diddy’s trial began in early May and is set to conclude in the coming days.
According to reports, federal prosecutors told New York City judge Arun Subramanian that they will not be pursing the charges of attempted kidnapping, attempted arson and aiding and abetting trafficking against Diddy.
The prosecutors have dropped the charges as a result of the judge’s request to “streamline” the instructions for the jury. By giving them less charges to consider, they can focus on ruling on the ones that matter most.
Combs faces a minimum of 15 years and a maximum of life in prison if found guilty by the jury.
“The Government understands the Court’s desire for streamlined instructions. With that in mind, the Government has suggested ways to streamline those instructions,” the letter to Judge Arun Subramanian read.
In September 2024, Diddy was arrested by Homeland Security agents at a hotel in New York City on multiple federal charges, including racketeering, trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution.
Following his arrest, bail was denied, and he was transferred to the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn, where he remains as his trial proceeds. If convicted, he could face up to life imprisonment.
In addition to the federal charges, Combs, 55, has been named as a defendant in over 60 lawsuits alleging sexual misconduct. He has denied all accusations against him.
After beginning on May 5, 2025, with jury selection, Combs’ trial entered its opening statements and first witness testimonies on May 12.
In the weeks since, the prosecution called 34 witnesses to the stands, including former girlfriends, escorts, assistants, security staff, and federal agents, as well as high-profile figures like Diddy’s ex Cassie and rapper Kid Cudi, whom Diddy allegedly threatened to kill before breaking into his home.