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Sean “Diddy” Combs is officially heading to court today, May 12, to face a federal trial that’s been making headlines across the country. The rapper and music mogul is being charged with some very serious crimes, including sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting people for prostitution.
The trial kicks off with opening statements at 9:00 AM, and it follows a short delay from earlier this week. The judge on the case, Arun Subramanian, decided to push back the start to give the jury—who were selected last week—some breathing room. One of the jurors even contacted the court asking to step down due to concerns for their personal well-being, which added to the judge’s caution.
Combs was arrested in late 2024, after his former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, came forward with a lawsuit accusing him of rape and assault. She’s expected to testify in court during this trial, which could be a major turning point in the case. Not long after Combs’ arrest, a video surfaced online showing him allegedly dragging and kicking Cassie in a hotel lobby, which added fuel to the already intense public reaction.
While the investigation has reportedly touched on the names of other celebrities—Kanye West, Michael B. Jordan, and Kiki Myers—a source told People magazine that these individuals are not expected to testify.
Aside from Cassie, three more alleged victims are lined up to speak in court and share their experiences. Despite everything, Diddy has denied all the allegations made against him.
If the court finds him guilty on these charges, he could be sentenced to life in prison—making this trial not just a huge moment in his life, but one of the most closely watched legal cases involving a celebrity in recent years.