After six weeks of testimony and more than 30 witnesses presented by prosecutors, the defence confirmed on Monday that it will not call any witnesses, including Combs himself, and will instead introduce exhibits into evidence. Closing arguments are expected to begin on Thursday.

Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to five charges: one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. The charges stem from allegations that Combs ran his entertainment empire as a criminal enterprise designed to exploit and abuse women over the span of several years.

Legal experts say the decision not to present witnesses is strategic rather than unusual.

“It’s not uncommon for the defence to rest without putting anyone on the stand,” said former federal prosecutor Mitchell Epner. “They may argue that the government’s own witnesses helped their case, and they have no obligation to prove innocence — that remains the prosecution’s burden.”

The prosecution’s case relied heavily on the testimony of three women: singer Cassie Ventura, an ex-assistant referred to as “Mia,” and a former girlfriend using the pseudonym “Jane.” Ventura described being coerced into sexual encounters called “freak offs” and claimed Combs used intimidation and drugs to control her. “Jane” and “Mia” offered similar accounts.

Supporting evidence included over 50 videos and hundreds of messages, including texts between Combs and his chief of staff, Kristina Khorram, discussing arrangements with women and emergency contraception. Financial and travel records also linked Combs’ corporate accounts to escort payments and luxury travel.

Among the prosecution’s most shocking claims was a 2012 arson incident involving rapper Kid Cudi’s Porsche, allegedly firebombed after Combs threatened him. A former employee testified Combs paid to suppress hotel security footage of him assaulting Ventura in 2016, potentially supporting obstruction of justice claims.

While Combs’ defence initially floated the possibility of calling three witnesses, including a former Bad Boy Entertainment executive, lead attorney Marc Agnifilo told U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian they would rest after introducing documents and stipulations instead.

The defence is expected to file a routine motion to dismiss the case before closing arguments, a legal formality unlikely to succeed. In closing, Combs’ lawyers are anticipated to challenge the credibility of prosecution witnesses, suggesting exaggeration or motives tied to ongoing civil lawsuits.

“He can’t testify without being subjected to a withering cross-examination about other bad acts, all of which could expose him to civil liability in lawsuits brought by others,” said legal analyst Mark Zauderer.

If convicted of any charge, Combs faces a lengthy prison sentence. The jury, made up of eight men and four women, will soon be tasked with weighing a sprawling case that has combined celebrity, sex, power, and alleged criminal enterprise.

Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to five charges: one count of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.