Sean 'Diddy' combs admits nervousness as jury selection begins in high-profile sex trafficking trial

On Monday, Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs showed up at a federal court in Manhattan wearing formal clothes, looking noticeably nervous as the jury selection process started for his sex-trafficking case. The music industry icon replaced his prison outfit with a blue sweater over a white shirt and took his seat at the defense table as the widely watched trial began, as per a New York Post report.

Brief Break During Jury Questioning

After about 90 minutes of juror questioning, Diddy asked Judge Arun Subramanian for a brief two-minute bathroom break. He told the judge, “I’m sorry your honour, I’m a little nervous today,” according to The New York Post. Twelve jurors from New York will decide if the music mogul is guilty of the charges he faces.

Jury Selection Process and Screening

The process of selecting the jury started with 50 potential jurors who were questioned using the surveys they had filled out the previous week. During this screening, they are likely to be asked about their views on hip-hop culture and their attitudes toward people who have multiple sexual partners-important issues that could influence Diddy’s trial.

Timeline and Key Witnesses

Judge Subramaniam aims to complete the jury selection within three days, after which twelve jurors and six alternates will be chosen. The trial’s opening statements are scheduled for Monday, May 12. According to sources familiar with the case, the jury will hear testimonies from key individuals involved, including Diddy’s ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, as well as current and former staff members and sex workers who took part in the alleged “Freak-offs.”

Evidence Presented During the Trial

During the trial, jurors will view explicit videos from the so-called “Freak-Off” events and examine extensive evidence collected during federal searches of Diddy’s homes in Los Angeles and Miami. The seized items include more than 1,000 bottles of personal lubricant and baby oil. They will also review the well-known 2016 footage showing the music mogul physically assaulting Cassie Ventura in a hotel hallway.