Sean “Diddy” Combs has chosen not to testify in his own defense during his ongoing sex trafficking trial.
The Bad Boy Records founder stood up in court to confirm his decision after prosecutors finished presenting their case. When the judge asked if it was his choice not to testify, Diddy replied: “That is my decision, your honor. It is solely my decision.”
Defense Rests Without Witnesses
Diddy’s legal team also rested their defense without calling any witnesses to support his not guilty plea. This means the defense presented no evidence or testimony to counter the prosecution’s case.
Closing arguments are scheduled for June 26. After that, the case will go to jury deliberation.
Potential Life Sentence
If convicted, Diddy faces up to life in prison on the sex trafficking charges.
Some people speculate that President Donald Trump might pardon Diddy if he’s found guilty. Trump previously said he would “consider” a pardon after reviewing “the facts” of the case.
Suge Knight Weighs In
Death Row Records co-founder Suge Knight, who is currently in prison, believes Diddy will avoid jail time. Speaking to NewsNation, Knight said he thinks Diddy has connections with the government.
“I think he’s got some favors with the government,” Knight said. “I don’t think he has nothing to worry about, and I don’t think he’s worried because he’s gonna be federal, and if he gets convicted, Trump’s gonna pardon him.”
Knight, despite being Diddy’s longtime rival, said he believes Diddy should walk free. He criticized the fact that other music executives involved weren’t also charged.
“Puffy should definitely walk free,” Knight said. “For Puffy to be the only guy that gets on the stand is a sad day for Hip Hop.”
What’s Next
The trial moves to closing arguments tomorrow, where both sides will make their final pitches to the jury. Then jurors will deliberate to decide Diddy’s fate.
