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The public prosecutor's office discontinues proceedings against P. Diddy because the statute of limitations has expired
Vienna: Proceedings against P. Diddy for rape temporarily discontinued; Statute of limitations as the main reason. More information here.
The public prosecutor's office discontinues proceedings against P. Diddy because the statute of limitations has expired
The Vienna public prosecutor's office has temporarily closed the case against Sean "P. Diddy" Combs. This is due to the statute of limitations on the accusation, which concerns the rape of a 19-year-old in 2000 after a concert in Vienna. The report was filed in February 2025 by a TV presenter who alleged that she had been drugged and raped on the musician's tour bus in March 2000. At the time of the incident, the woman wanted to do an interview with P. Diddy.
The public prosecutor's office explained that the statute of limitations for rape in Austria is generally ten years, but in serious cases it can last up to twenty years. Since the incident occurred more than 24 years ago, criminal prosecution is no longer possible. The proceedings were discontinued in accordance with Section 192 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, with the right to pursue prosecution at a later date.
Details on the statute of limitations in Austrian law
As kanzlei.law explains, the statute of limitations for rape in Austria is generally 20 years and expires when the victim turns 50. For crimes that were committed after January 27, 2015 or are not statute-barred, the statute of limitations will stop when the victim reaches the age of 50. A longer limitation period of 20 years applies to children under 14 years of age.
Although the proceedings have been discontinued in Austria, they could be reopened under certain circumstances. An ongoing trial against P. Diddy in New York could possibly have an impact on the statute of limitations in Austria. This trial involves several serious sexual offenses and has been ongoing since mid-May. A possible conviction in the USA could interrupt or retroactively extend the statute of limitations under Austrian law.
The complexity of the matter highlights the difficulties that can arise when prosecuting sexual offenses. This is also confirmed by wien.orf.at, who point out the challenging legal environment in which such cases often have to be investigated.
In the public discussion about rape and the associated legal aspects, it remains clear: the statute of limitations for crimes has a significant influence on the ability to go to court and obtain justice for those affected.