New York, July 4, 2025 – A juror in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial, which concluded July 2, 2025, strongly denied suggestions that Combs’ celebrity status influenced the verdict, calling the claim “highly insulting and belittling” to the jury’s process, per ABC News. The jury acquitted Combs of racketeering conspiracy and two sex trafficking counts but convicted him on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution, related to ex-girlfriends Cassie Ventura and “Jane.” Here’s the story, plus five steps to ensure fair jury deliberations, optimized for the keyword Juror in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs trial pushes back on claim that celebrity influence played a role in verdict.

The anonymous juror, speaking to ABC News on July 3, expressed concern about online abuse and rejected a pundit’s claim that Combs’ fame swayed the outcome. The jury, composed of eight men and four women, deliberated for three days, reaching a partial verdict on July 1 but deadlocking on the racketeering charge due to “unpersuadable opinions,” per The New York Times. Judge Arun Subramanian urged continued deliberation without issuing an Allen charge, and on July 2, the jury delivered a mixed verdict. Combs, 55, faces up to 10 years in prison and remains detained until his October sentencing, per NBC News. “The jury got it right enough,” said defense attorney Marc Agnifilo, celebrating the acquittals on the most serious charges.

5 Steps to Ensure Fair Jury Deliberations

1. Follow Judicial Instructions – The jury’s concern about Juror No. 25, a 51-year-old veterinarian, not following instructions highlights their importance, per Reuters. Study and adhere to the judge’s legal guidelines, as Subramanian emphasized for unanimity without sacrificing beliefs.
2. Minimize External Influence – Attorney David Seltzer noted sequestering jurors could prevent outside influence, per Fox News. Avoid media exposure, as the juror rejected celebrity sway, ensuring decisions are evidence-based.
3. Engage in Open Dialogue – The jury’s notes, like requesting Cassie’s testimony, show active discussion, per USA Today. Foster respectful debate to address “unpersuadable” views, as seen in the deadlock resolution.
4. Evaluate Evidence Critically – Jurors reviewed videos and testimony from 34 witnesses, including Cassie and Kid Cudi, per BBC. Focus on facts, like the 2016 hotel assault video, to ground decisions, not fame.
5. Maintain Anonymity – The juror’s anonymity protected against harassment, per ABC News. Courts use this in high-profile cases, like Combs’, to ensure impartiality, as Subramanian enforced.

What’s Next

Combs’ sentencing is set for October 3, though a July 8 conference may expedite it, per NBC News. Prosecutors seek a four-to-five-year sentence, while Combs’ team fights for his release. Follow CNN or X posts like @AP for updates, and support fair trials by advocating for juror protections in high-profile cases.