Jury selection for Sean “Diddy” Combs’ upcoming trial on charges of sex trafficking began in Lower Manhattan, where 32 potential jurors were questioned about their ability to remain impartial despite heavy media coverage of the case. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian conducted the voir dire process, aiming to select a panel of 12 jurors and 6 alternates who could fairly evaluate the case. The trial will officially begin with opening statements on May 12.
Among the prospective jurors, several acknowledged being familiar with allegations against Combs, including seeing a video of an alleged assault involving the hip-hop mogul. One juror referred to a news clip showing Combs allegedly attacking a woman in a hotel, but they were deemed suitable to serve after promising to approach the case with an open mind. Another juror was dismissed after describing an image that could be used as evidence in the case.
The charges stem from a 2016 incident in which Combs allegedly assaulted his former girlfriend, singer Casandra Ventura, in a hotel hallway. The prosecution claims this event is part of a larger pattern of coercion, where Combs used force and threats over a two-decade period to force women into sex-fueled performances with male sex workers. Authorities also found drugs and over 1,000 bottles of baby oil during raids of Combs’ properties.
As the trial progresses, defense attorneys argue that the events depicted in the video were part of a domestic dispute and not linked to sex trafficking. Combs could face up to life in prison if convicted. Jury selection is expected to be completed by the end of the week, with more potential jurors to be questioned on Tuesday.
