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Music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs has been found not guilty of racketeering and sex trafficking, but was convicted on two counts of transporting women for prostitution, including ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura and another unnamed woman referred to as "Jane". The verdict, delivered Wednesday morning by a New York federal jury, has triggered a wave of outrage online, with many calling the music icon a "monster" and demanding maximum sentencing.

The high-profile seven-week trial was filled with graphic testimonies, shocking evidence, and disturbing claims, including allegations of drug-fueled “Freak Offs”, parties where Combs allegedly orchestrated sexual encounters involving baby oil and controlled substances. Several assistants testified about being ordered to prepare hotel rooms with baby oil, and court records revealed damages to hotel rooms tied to these events.

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Despite the sensational allegations, the jury acquitted Combs of the most serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy, which could have carried a life sentence, and sex trafficking. The two transportation charges he was found guilty of each carry a maximum of 10 years, leaving him vulnerable to up to 20 years behind bars.

Jury And Public Reaction

The verdict was delivered after over 13 hours of deliberation by a jury comprising eight men and four women. Upon hearing the outcome, Combs was seen kneeling, appearing to pray, before turning to the courtroom gallery with claps and a smile, saying, “I love you, Mom. I’ll be home soon.”

Outside the courthouse, reactions were mixed but intense. Some supporters celebrated, while others expressed disgust. In a bizarre moment, baby oil was sprayed into the crowd, symbolically linked to the most salacious parts of the trial testimony.

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Legal Consequences Loom

Although Combs celebrated partial vindication, the federal government is seeking prison time. Assistant US Attorney Maurene Comey emphasised that Combs "does not respect the law" and is likely to reoffend if granted leniency. The prosecution confirmed its intention to seek incarceration, despite the acquittals on more severe charges.

Judge Arun Subramanian has yet to set a sentencing date, and deliberations continue on the racketeering count, which the jury had not reached a consensus on as of their last note to the court. Social media remains ablaze with debate over whether Combs is being let off too lightly or unfairly targeted. Will he serve the full 20 years? That remains to be seen.