NEW YORK — Jury selection for Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial could conclude today after two days of court proceedings. Judge Arun Subramanian has been actively questioning prospective jurors to uncover any potential biases that may affect their judgment.
Combs faces serious allegations of using force and coercion to compel individuals to participate in extended sex acts, which he referred to as “Freak Offs,” often capturing these encounters on film. He has pled not guilty to all charges against him.
The defense asserts that the accusers are former romantic partners and likens Combs to a “swinger,” arguing that the case revolves around consensual interactions involving a male escort. As the jury selection process continues, an additional dozen potential jurors are expected to be questioned today, with a jury likely to be finalized.
On Monday and Tuesday, the court managed to assemble a pool of 35 potential jurors, which falls short of the targeted 45 who would stand as candidates for a trial anticipated to last up to two months. Throughout the proceedings, Combs appeared focused and engaged, dressed in a white shirt, blue sweater, and navy pants without a belt, though he reportedly adjusted his clothing at one point.
Several prospective jurors were dismissed due to concerns about their ability to remain impartial. One man was excused after candidly admitting that he was unlikely to adhere to a judge’s order prohibiting marijuana use during the trial, prompting laughter in the courtroom. Others were let go after acknowledging their previous exposure to news coverage on the case, including a controversial video from 2016 in which Combs was seen in a confrontation with artist Cassie.
The jury pool has included individuals from diverse professions, such as a middle school gym teacher, a mover, and a massage therapist who is also an actor and a member of SAG-AFTRA. One juror with connections to HBO raised eyebrows, especially since the network’s platform, Max, released a docuseries titled “The Fall of Diddy,” which the defense labeled as negative.
Looking ahead, opening statements for the trial are scheduled to begin on May 12. The trial is likely to cover a two-month period, during which both sides will make final selections from the jury pool without needing to justify their choices. Prosecutors intend to portray Combs as the leader of a criminal organization exploiting women, while the defense plans to argue that any sexual encounters were consensual.
The prosecution’s case hinges significantly on a charge involving the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), alleging that Combs operated a long-term criminal enterprise involving sex trafficking, drugs, and coercion. A conviction could lead to severe penalties, including the potential for life imprisonment.
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