Diddy's Sex Trafficking Trial Begins with High-Profile Jury Selection

Sean "Diddy" Combs' federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial has begun in Manhattan, with jury selection revealing the high-profile and sensitive nature of the case. Potential jurors were questioned extensively about their ability to handle graphic content, including depictions of sex and violence, as well as their familiarity with numerous celebrities who might be referenced during proceedings.

During jury selection, prospective jurors disclosed various connections to the case, including some who admitted to having seen the hotel assault footage of Combs attacking his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura. The selection process included questions about recognition of approximately 190 celebrity names, including Michael B. Jordan, Kanye West, Kid Cudi, and Mike Myers.

Judge Arun Subramanian remarked on the extensive list of names jurors were asked about, joking that it resembled "an appendix from 'The Lord of the Rings.'" Despite the high-profile nature of the case, the court has decided that jurors will not be sequestered during the trial. They will be allowed to return home daily but have been instructed to avoid media coverage and discussions about the case.

Federal prosecutors revealed a potential challenge in their case, stating they may not be able to secure testimony from one alleged victim witness due to difficulty contacting her, despite having issued a subpoena.

Combs was arrested in New York on September 16, 2024, following raids on his homes in Los Angeles, Miami, and New York. He is currently being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn after pleading not guilty to charges that could potentially result in a life sentence if convicted. His trial is scheduled to begin on May 5, 2025.