
Sean Combs says he will not testify
Sean Combs told Judge Arun Subramanian that he declined to testify on his own behalf.
"That is my decision with my lawyers," Combs said.
The jury wasn't present when the judge spoke directly to Combs.
"How are you feeling today?" Subramanian asked Combs, who stood to answer.
"I'm doing great. How are you, your honor?" Combs responded. "I want to tell you thank you. You're doing an excellent job."
Subramanian responded, "Thank you." He then continued with the allocution.
"Do you understand that as a criminal defendant you have the right to testify if you wish to testify?" the judge asked.
"Yes, your honor," Combs responded.
"You've made the decision freely on your own behalf?" Subramanian asked.
"That is totally my decision," Combs answered.
Beforehand, defense attorney Alexandra Shapiro took aim at several of the underlying criminal acts that federal prosecutors allege constituted the racketeering conspiracy charge that Combs faces.
Combs engaged in and attempted to engage in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, narcotics offenses, enticement to engage in prostitution, and obstruction, according to the indictment.