A juror in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial has been dismissed after giving inconsistent information about where he lives. The decision, made by Judge Arun Subramanian on Monday, came despite objections from Combs’ legal team, who argued that removing the Black male juror would unfairly harm their client.
Juror No. 6’s residency became an issue last week after the judge noted conflicting statements. During jury selection, the juror said on a questionnaire that he lived in the Bronx with his fiancée and infant daughter. However, during a later conversation with another juror, he said he had recently moved in with his girlfriend in New Jersey.
When questioned by the court, the juror explained that he keeps an apartment in the Bronx where he stays during the week, but spends time with his daughter and her mother in New Jersey. He also mentioned living with an aunt at one point, but later did not include that detail.
Judge Subramanian said the juror’s statements raised concerns. He cited “several inconsistencies” in the transcripts and said they could suggest the juror was trying to “shade answers” or “be deceptive” to join the jury. The judge emphasized that jurors must not have personal agendas and said removing the juror was necessary to protect the integrity of the trial.
“There are serious questions about the juror’s candor and ability to follow the court’s instructions,” Subramanian said. He noted that six alternate jurors remain available.
Combs’ attorney, Xavier Donaldson, strongly objected. He argued that moving between New York and New Jersey is common and that the court was unfairly equating inconsistent statements with dishonesty. Donaldson said he believed the juror could still serve fairly, adding, “He’s been awake — I can’t say they all have been awake.”
Donaldson also raised concerns about race, calling this the most diverse jury he had seen in 30 years. He said dismissing the juror would be “a step backward.”
“I don’t generally play the race card unless I have it in my hand,” Donaldson said.
Federal prosecutors rejected the suggestion that race influenced the decision. They said the jury’s diversity is positive and noted that all jurors, including alternates, have been attentive throughout the trial.
Combs, the founder of Bad Boy Records, has pleaded not guilty to charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and transporting individuals for prostitution. The trial is now in its sixth week. Prosecutors are expected to rest their case this week, after which the defense will begin calling witnesses.
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