Diddy trial jury selection kicks off with rapper admitting he’s ‘nervous’
Sean “Diddy” Combs Faces Trial for Sex-Trafficking Charges
Sean “Diddy” Combs, dressed in business attire, appeared anxious as his sex-trafficking trial commenced in Manhattan federal court. The 55-year-old hip-hop icon swapped his jail clothes for a blue sweater over a white button-down shirt as he sat through the jury selection process.
During the proceedings, Combs expressed his nerves to Judge Arun Subramanian, requesting a short bathroom break after about 90 minutes of juror questioning. The trial will see 12 New Yorkers determining whether the multimillionaire led his Bad Boy Records company as a criminal enterprise that coerced women, including his ex-girlfriend Cassie, into drug-fueled sex benders known as “Freak-Offs.”
Prospective jurors are being questioned based on a questionnaire they completed last week, addressing topics such as their views on the hip-hop industry and sexual relations with multiple partners. One potential juror, who had liked a video mocking the 1,000 bottles of baby oil found in Combs’ mansions, was allowed to remain in the jury pool after affirming her ability to judge the case fairly.
The accusations against Combs include forcing his partners to engage in sexual activities with male prostitutes while he watched and recorded the encounters to use as leverage. He is also accused of orchestrating violent assaults, kidnappings, arson, drug distribution, and witness tampering to conceal his actions.
Combs, known for founding Sean John sportswear label in 1998, has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, racketeering conspiracy, and transportation for prostitution. Throughout the expected two-month trial, he intends to argue that the encounters were consensual and part of his personal but non-criminal sex life.
The trial will feature testimonies from Cassie and other former romantic partners, employees, and sex workers involved in the alleged coerced experiences. Evidence seized from Combs’ mansions, including a large quantity of personal lubricant and baby oil, will be presented to the jury. Additionally, surveillance footage showing Combs mistreating Ventura at a hotel in Los Angeles will be shown.
Despite being held without bail at Brooklyn’s Metropolitan Detention Center for seven months, Combs remains steadfast in his plea of innocence as the trial progresses.
