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After three days of jury selection, the federal trial of Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs in New York is progressing toward opening statements, scheduled for May 12. From 45 potential jurors, the court will finalize 12 jurors and six alternates by May 9.
Combs faces a five-count indictment including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for prostitution. He denies all charges.
Jurors were thoroughly vetted on their views about sexual assault and abuse, and their ability to remain impartial despite hearing celebrity names like Michael B. Jordan and Kid Cudi during the trial.
Prosecutors revealed that one key witness, “Victim 3,” who was expected to detail how Combs allegedly coerced her, may not testify due to communication issues with her counsel. An update on her status is expected soon.
Jury selection also included lighter moments—one juror admitted he was too distracted by binging Andor to complete his questionnaire, while another was questioned over social media activity involving jokes about the case.
Three other alleged victims remain scheduled to testify. The defense has expressed concerns that media coverage and leaked footage are impacting the fairness of the jury selection.