New York, NY — Jury selection began Monday for Sean “Diddy” Combs in a high-stakes trial involving serious charges, including sex trafficking, that could lead to life imprisonment if he is convicted. Potential jurors flocked to the Manhattan courthouse as the case against the former music mogul progresses after several months of legal turmoil.
Judge Arun Subramanian opened the session with a light-hearted analogy, likening the jury selection process to the complex narratives found in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings. He expressed his expectation that the trial could extend up to eight weeks, commencing with opening statements from federal prosecutors and Combs’ legal team on May 12.
Combs, who has maintained his innocence, was present in court wearing a sweater as he has been for nearly every appearance since his arrest in September. The 55-year-old artist, known for hits like “It’s All About the Benjamins,” faces multiple accusations stemming from allegations of racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation for prostitution. Recent indictments added claims of forced labor and additional sex trafficking allegations.
The case gained notoriety following Combs’ arrest in a New York City hotel lobby, where he entered a not-guilty plea. Prosecutors accuse Combs and associates of coercing four victims, including ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, into prolonged sexual encounters dubbed “freak-offs.” Allegations involve threats, drug usage, and the videotaping of these encounters, which were purportedly staged in hotel rooms.
Key evidence may come from Ventura, who filed a civil suit against Combs alleging assault, which was settled for $30 million in November 2023. The judge has ruled that jurors will view video footage from a 2016 incident where Combs is seen physically attacking Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel. Although the judge confirmed that jurors would see some of the video, details about the specific content shown remain unclear.
In court, Judge Subramanian outlined a rigorous schedule for the jury selection process, aiming to narrow down over 150 prospects within three days. The trial is set to run from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET during the first week, shifting to a 9 a.m. start time in subsequent weeks.
As the jury pool was deliberated, discussions touched on celebrity relationships and personal experiences related to themes of violence and abuse. The defense challenged many potential jurors, but Judge Subramanian urged expeditious progress in the selection.
From the initial group of jurors, three were excused while four more advanced in the process. Alongside these criminal charges, Combs faces numerous civil allegations, primarily addressed by attorney Tony Buzbee, with some cases already dismissed.
This trial marks a significant moment for Combs, who has navigated substantial legal challenges in recent years, including claims against him in civil court. Observers await further developments as the proceedings unfold in the coming weeks.
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