Sean “Diddy” Combs prosecutors drop kidnapping, attempted arson and sex trafficking charges

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According to TMZ, in an exclusive report, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ prosecutors have dropped the kidnapping, attempted arson, and aiding and abetting sex traffic charges against him. In a stunning development at Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal trial in Manhattan, prosecutors have abruptly dropped charges of kidnapping, arson, and parts of the aiding and abetting sex trafficking allegations just one day before closing arguments, TMZ reports.

According to court filings, the government informed Judge Arun Subramanian that it is working to “streamline” jury instructions, following his guidance. As a result, prosecutors will no longer pursue the claim that Combs forced former employee Capricorn Clark through a lie-detector ordeal, nor the alleged kidnapping of ex-girlfriend Cassie at the London Hotel. Allegations tied to the attempted arson involving Kid Cudi’s car have also been removed, as the prosecution failed to show Diddy’s direct connection to the incident.

Despite these significant cuts, prosecutors clarified they will retain other serious sex trafficking elements. They argue that coercion does not require physical restraint or commercial sex acts, and insist that prior consent—even if withdrawn—is still valid grounds for forced labour or trafficking.

Defence attorneys have long championed the “reasonable doubt” strategy. After resting their case without calling a single witness—opting instead to highlight texts and stipulations—they signalled confidence that the prosecution’s case was slipping.

Meanwhile, jurors prepare for closing arguments with a now leaner, more focused indictment, dramatically reshaping the trial’s final hours.

As the clock ticks toward a verdict, the stakes remain sky-high. Will the refocused charges hold—or will Diddy evade convictions on all counts? Expect a gripping courtroom drama as closing statements are delivered this week.