Sean 'Diddy' Combs decides not to testify in sex trafficking trial: 'That is solely my decision'
Sean "Diddy" Combs is currently on trial for a number of charges against him including racketeering and sex-trafficking.
Image: File.
In a pivotal moment of his ongoing trial, Sean "Diddy" Combs has chosen not to testify in his defence against the charges against him, as the prosecution wrapped up its case in the seventh week of proceedings.
On Tuesday, June 24, Judge Arun Subramanian conducted the allocution of Combs, a procedure that allows defendants to express their decision regarding self-testimony.
Reported to be wearing a bronze sweater layered over a white collared shirt, Combs stood before the judge, marking the longest period he has spoken in court since the trial commenced.
When asked how he was feeling, Combs responded: "I’m doing great, Your Honour. I’ve been wanting to tell you thank you. You’re doing an excellent job."
Judge Subramanian replied: "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 outlined Combs's options regarding testimony, making sure he understood that choosing to remain silent would not be held against him.
"That is my decision, Your Honour,” Combs confirmed, adding, "That is solely my decision. I mean, it’s my decision with my lawyers."
Judge 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.
Earlier, Combs's attorney, Alexandra Shapiro, delivered a motion for Combs’s acquittal on all five counts during the absence of the jury.
She argued that there was "insufficient evidence" to support any of the five counts against him.
“No reasonable juror could find him guilty on any of the counts beyond a reasonable doubt,” Shapiro said to the court.
On June 26 and 27, the prosecution and defence will present their closing arguments before the judge delivers instructions to the jury.
Jury deliberations are also expected to begin on Friday, June 27.