Jury selection for Sean “Diddy” Combs’ sex trafficking trial began Monday in Lower Manhattan, as media swarmed the courthouse. One hundred and fifty potential jurors were asked to complete a questionnaire assessing their familiarity with Combs, their views on law enforcement, and personal experiences with sexual assault. They were also shown a list of 190 celebrities and public figures, including Michael B. Jordan, Kanye West, Mike Myers, and Kid Cudi, and asked to indicate which names they recognized.
The connection between these names and the trial remains unclear, although Combs is known for hosting high-profile Hollywood parties and having strong connections in the entertainment industry. Prosecutors believe Kid Cudi may be linked to the case, as they allege Combs orchestrated a 2011 car bombing targeting the rapper, who had been romantically involved with Combs’ ex-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, the star witness.
A source close to the case confirmed that Michael B. Jordan would not be testifying, despite a past connection with Ventura, who he briefly dated in 2015.
Other names listed include Destiny’s Child’s Michelle Williams, actor Lauren London, and singer-producer Dallas Austin, as well as several of Combs’ family members. Despite the high-profile list, many jurors claimed they were not familiar with any of the names.
Combs is facing five charges, including racketeering, sex trafficking, and transportation to engage in prostitution. If convicted, he could face life in prison. The trial is expected to last at least eight weeks, with jury selection continuing until May 12, followed by opening arguments.
The process began with Judge Arun Subramanian questioning 32 potential jurors. Some shared personal experiences of sexual assault but indicated that these would not affect their impartiality. Many jurors also acknowledged viewing a hotel surveillance video, allegedly showing Combs assaulting Ventura. While the video will not be used as evidence, prosecutors may discuss it in court.
One potential juror, a photo producer at HBO, caused concern due to her involvement in “The Fall of Diddy,” a docuseries that aired on Max. However, the judge allowed her to remain in the jury pool. Another juror, a marketing executive at Simon & Schuster, was excused due to her connection to an upcoming memoir by Al B. Sure!, who has accused Combs of gang stalking and threats.
Combs faces over 70 civil lawsuits accusing him of sexual misconduct, separate from the federal trial. Federal prosecutors have interviewed more than 50 witnesses and seized evidence from over 100 electronic devices, painting a picture of Combs as a serial abuser at the center of a vast criminal network.
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