Trial Against P. Diddy: Serious Allegations Dropped

The prosecution has unexpectedly withdrawn several serious charges in the ongoing case against US rapper Sean "Diddy" Combs.

Just before the closing arguments, the prosecution informed the court, according to media reports, that the charges of kidnapping and attempted arson are being dropped. The charge of aiding human trafficking for sexual purposes will also not be pursued in parts. The prosecution stated that the reason was to make the case clearer for the jury.

The background includes accusations that Combs allegedly set fire to the vehicle of his fellow musician Kid Cudi out of jealousy. The allegations that he held a former employee and his ex-girlfriend against their will are also off the table. According to a report by the celebrity portal TMZ, the evidence in these points was apparently insufficient to secure a conviction.

Central Charge Remains

Despite these withdrawals, the central charge of sex trafficking remains. The prosecution accuses Combs of forcing several people into sexual acts and using a criminal network in the process. The defense has been trying to refute this charge since the beginning of the trial – among other things, through text messages that suggest a consensual relationship.

The prosecution counters that prior consent to sexual acts does not automatically constitute legal consent for all situations. Accordingly, they demand that the jury be instructed accordingly.

A verdict in the Combs case is expected in the coming weeks. The trial is being held in New York.

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