As Sean "Diddy" Combs' high-profile sex trafficking trial nears its end, his defense team is expected to take the unusual step of resting its case without calling a single witness, People reports. The prosecution, meanwhile, is expected to rest its case Tuesday after calling 34 witnesses. Homeland Security Special Agent Joseph Cerciello, the final prosecution witness, will finish his testimony that day, the 28th day of the trial since it began in May.
In a shift from earlier plans, Combs' defense team, led by attorney Marc Agnifilo, said Tuesday that it will not call any witnesses. The defense has, however, submitted several exhibits into evidence, and defense attorneys said they would present that evidence to the jury, the New York Post reports. Last week, the defense had indicated it might bring in at least three witnesses, including two employees of Combs Enterprises and a psychological expert. Combs himself will likely not testify, but Judge Arun Subramanian is expected to confirm this decision with him on the record.
Closing arguments are expected to start Thursday, and jury deliberations could begin by the end of the week. The trial has included graphic testimony, including statements from Combs' ex-girlfriend Casandra "Cassie" Ventura, who testified to years of alleged abuse—detailing claims of psychological manipulation, physical violence, and coerced sex acts. She said Combs used his influence in the music industry to restrict and control her, echoing allegations from her previously settled civil suit. (This content was created with the help of AI. Read our AI policy.)
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