The prosecution has finally rested its case against Sean “Diddy” Combs in the seventh week of his sex trafficking trial. Now, as the defense presents its case, Combs spoke up in court for the longest amount of time since the trial began.
Just before 3 p.m. on Tuesday, Judge Arun Subramanian conducted the allocution of Combs, where the defendant formally decides whether or not to testify in their own trial.
Asked by the judge how he is feeling, Combs, wearing a bronze-colored sweater over a white collared shirt, stood up and said, “I’m doing great, Your Honor. I’ve been wanting to tell you thank you. You’re doing an excellent job.”
Subramanian chuckled and told Combs, “Thank you, I appreciate it,” before confirming with Combs that he is of a clear mind and not under the influence of any drugs. The judge asked Combs whether he understood his option to testify, and that the jury will be instructed not to draw any inference if he chooses not to. “Yes, Your Honor,” Combs said.
Combs was asked if he has discussed his decision with his lawyers. Speaking quickly and interrupting the judge, he said, “Yes, thoroughly.”
The judge asked Combs if it is his decision not to testify in his own criminal trial. “That is my decision, Your Honor,” Combs said. “That is solely my decision. I mean, it’s my decision with my lawyers.”
Subramanian asked once again if Combs understood that it is his decision to make. “Yes, my decision, I’m making it,” Combs replied.
Combs is pleading not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, transportation to engage in prostitution and racketeering. The jury is expected to deliver a verdict next week. If convicted, Combs could spend the rest of his life behind bars.
Read the full article here
