“Is it your decision not to testify in this case?” asked the judge.
“That is my decision, Your Honor. It is solely my decision,” Diddy replied.
With both sides having rested, closing arguments are scheduled for tomorrow (June 26), after which the case will be handed over to the jury for deliberation. If convicted, Diddy could face up to life in prison.
The trial, which has drawn national headlines, has included disturbing allegations and graphic evidence, including what prosecutors referred to as “freak off tapes.” Despite the gravity of the charges, Diddy’s defense team opted not to present any counter-testimony or evidence.
Speculation has swirled around the possibility of a presidential pardon should Diddy be convicted. Former President Donald Trump previously said he would “consider” such an action after reviewing the case.
Death Row Records co-founder Suge Knight—currently incarcerated himself—has also voiced confidence in Diddy’s fate. In a recent NewsNation interview, Knight stated:
“I think he’s got some favors with the government… If he gets convicted, Trump’s gonna pardon him.”
Knight, who has a well-known history of rivalry with Diddy, went so far as to say he does not believe Diddy belongs in prison at all:
“We’re not friends, but Puffy should definitely walk free… It’s a sad day for Hip Hop when he’s the only one taking the fall.”
The outcome now rests in the hands of the jury, whose decision could mark one of the most consequential moments in Diddy’s long and controversial career.
