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The prosecution has completed delivering its closing arguments. Here's what they said this afternoon
Assistant US Attorney Christy Slavik makes the case for the government, as the defendant looks on.
Christine Cornell
The prosecution has concluded its closing arguments, with prosecutor Christy Slavik spending more than four hours today delivering remarks on behalf of the government. Slavik outlined the five counts Sean “Diddy” Combs faces, including racketeering conspiracy, sëx trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution.
Here’s how she ended her closing argument after the afternoon break:
- Counts 3 and 5: To convict Combs of the two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, Slavik said the jury must find that he knowingly transported an individual in interstate or foreign commerce, intending for that person to engage in prostitution. She said Combs paid for individuals to travel for sexµal encounters with Cassie Ventura and Jane in several states and abroad, and outlined multiple examples to illustrate her point.
- Predicate act: Transportation for prostitution is also a predicate act under the racketeering conspiracy charge, Slavik said. She added that there is significant evidence former chief of staff Kristina Khorram knew what was happening in the hotel rooms, facilitated travel for escorts, and ensured Combs received thousands of dollars in cash when he requested it during and after “hotel nights.” Khorram, Slavik said, “knew exactly what was happening.”
- Forced labor: Slavik noted that forced labor is also an element of the racketeering conspiracy charge, telling the jury they heard evidence of forced labor involving several witnesses. She said Combs forcing Ventura and Jane into grueling, days-long sexµal encounters without sleep qualifies as forced labor. Slavik also referenced the testimony of Mia, Combs’ assistant, who said he sexµally assaulted her while she worked for him, emphasizing that as Mia’s boss, Combs had “all the power and control” over her.
- Witness tampering and obstruction: Slavik said Combs engaged in witness tampering and obstruction after Ventura’s lawsuit was filed in November 2023. Knowing the civil allegations could lead to a criminal investigation, Combs turned to his inner circle to help “neutralize” those who could harm him most, including Jane, Slavik said. Remember: Combs was denied bail three times after his arrest, as prosecutors alleged he continued to attempt to obstruct the investigation.
- In conclusion: Slavik concluded her remarks by thanking the jury and summarizing the evidence presented over the past several weeks. “Up until today, the defendant was able to get away with these crimes because of his money, his power, his influence. That stops now,” Slavik said. “It’s time to hold him accountable.”
Combs’ defense team will present their closing arguments Friday. The government will then have an opportunity for rebuttal before the judge gives the jury instructions ahead of deliberations.
