Diddy Challenges Federal Charges, Claims Racial Discrimination
Sean "Diddy" Combs' legal team has filed a motion to dismiss one of his federal charges, claiming racial bias and challenging the use of The Mann Act, a controversial law from 1910.
Diddy during federal indictment hearing
Combs faces three federal charges: racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals across state lines for prostitution. The last charge falls under The Mann Act, which his defense team argues is outdated and historically used to target Black men.
Ashley Parham in red jacket
The Mann Act, originally called the White-Slave Traffic Act, was created to prevent human trafficking but has a documented history of discriminatory application against Black men. Combs' lawyers assert that no white defendant has faced similar prosecution under this statute in modern times.
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The defense team argues that Combs' prosecution is unprecedented and potentially discriminatory, stating that his status as a powerful Black figure has made him a target. Prosecutors reject these claims, maintaining that the case focuses on criminal conduct rather than race, and note The Mann Act's recent use in cases like Ghislaine Maxwell's 2021 trial.
Diddy wearing white turtleneck
The court's decision on whether to drop the charge could set a significant precedent for future cases involving The Mann Act. The outcome remains pending, with both sides preparing for upcoming hearings that will determine the direction of this high-profile case.