Statement from RAINN on the Verdict in the United States vs. Sean Combs Trial

July 2, 2025

Today’s “guilty” verdict on the charge of transportation to engage in prostitution and the “not guilty” verdict on the charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion in the United States vs. Sean Combs trial is a complex reflection of how survivors of sexual violence can find justice. 

Defense attorney Marc Agnifilo called the relationship between Sean Combs and Cassie Ventura a “great modern love story.” There’s nothing modern or great about abusing your partner, and it certainly isn’t an expression of love. 

The details of Combs’ crimes were shocking and, in many ways, uncommon. But the experiences of those he victimized, and the courage that they showed in their testimony, are familiar to millions of survivors. If you look past the “freak-offs” you’ll see the reality that this case is like every other case of sexual violence: real harm was done to real humans, and justice demands real consequences for the offender. 

We’re grateful to Ventura, “Jane” and the other witness who testified, and appreciative of the jurors who ensured a measure of justice for these survivors.

— Scott Berkowitz is founder and president of RAINN, the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization.