Jury selection begins today at a federal courthouse in Manhattan for the trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, one of the most successful rappers and music producers in the United States. Some 600 potential jurors have been summoned and have already completed preliminary questionnaires.
Since he is a public figure, Combs’ defense has requested “sequestered” jury selection, that is, with individual questioning conducted away from other jurors to avoid contamination by media reports. However, prosecutors have disputed this request, arguing that special protection is not necessary. The judge has not yet made a final decision on the matter.
Combs, now 55, is charged with rape, racketeering, human trafficking and criminal conspiracy. If found guilty, he faces more than 20 years in prison.
According to the indictment, Combs allegedly used his influential position in the music industry to force some women to participate in so-called “Freak Offs,” or orgies, often accompanied by drug use and threats. Charges also include kidnapping, physical violence, bribery and arson.
A number of key witnesses will be present at the trial, including Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former partner and one of his main accusers. Ventura claims she was physically and sexually abused during their relationship, as evidenced by a 2016 video from a security camera that showed the rapper assaulting her in a hotel hallway as she apparently was trying to escape.
According to NBC New York, some witnesses have expressed fears for their safety and privacy. Currently, Combs has rejected a plea deal and pleads not guilty. The trial could last up to eight weeks.
