On May 5, 2025, jury selection commenced in the federal sex trafficking trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs at the Daniel Patrick Moynihan Courthouse in Manhattan. Combs, 55, faces five federal charges, including racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all counts and remains in custody after being denied bail multiple times.
Jury Selection Process Underway
The selection process began with potential jurors completing detailed questionnaires to determine any biases or inability to remain impartial. In-person questioning, known as voir dire, also began on May 5, overseen by Judge Arun Subramanian. The court aims to select 12 jurors and 6 alternates from an initial pool of 600 people. Given the intense media scrutiny, the judge ordered the jury to remain anonymous for their safety and privacy.
Defense Strategy: Lifestyle vs. Criminality
Combs’ legal team argues that the alleged sexual activities were consensual and part of a “swingers” lifestyle. They maintain that no criminal behavior occurred. The defense has requested to pre-screen jurors who may feel uncomfortable with sexually explicit content, suggesting that such discomfort could bias deliberations.
Prosecution’s Case: A Pattern of Abuse
Federal prosecutors allege that Combs used his music empire to coerce and abuse women over a 20-year span. The indictment includes claims that he used drugs to manipulate victims and recorded sexual acts without consent. Prosecutors say the abuse was systemic and violent, with Combs allegedly retaliating when his demands were not met.
What’s Next in the Trial
Opening statements are scheduled for May 12, and the trial is expected to last up to eight weeks. If convicted on all charges, Combs faces between 15 years to life in prison. The courtroom proceedings will not be livestreamed due to federal regulations, but sketch artists will provide visuals for the public.
Witness Testimony and Industry Fallout
The trial is expected to include graphic and emotional testimony. Notably, singer Cassie Ventura—Combs’ former partner and alleged victim—may take the stand. Her involvement, alongside other witnesses, could reshape public perception of Combs and further influence how the entertainment industry addresses abuse and power dynamics.
Join the Conversation
What do you think about the charges against Diddy and how this trial could impact the music industry at large? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow MEFeater on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest for live updates and in-depth coverage as Diddy sex trafficking trial unfolds.
