What is Sean 'Diddy' Combs charged with and how are jurors picked?

The trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs began with jury selection in New York on Monday.

If the jury is selected this week, opening statements will follow on Monday.

Mr. Combs faces serious charges, including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking. If convicted, he could face life in prison.

He also faces numerous civil lawsuits from individuals accusing him of drugging, assaulting, and intimidating them.

Mr. Combs has pleaded not guilty to all criminal charges. He calls the lawsuits attempts for a "quick payday."

Who is Sean 'Diddy' Combs?

Sean Combs, also known as Puffy or P Diddy, rose to fame in the 1990s.

He helped launch careers for artists like Mary J Blige and Biggie Smalls.

His label, Bad Boy Records, became a major force in rap music.

Combs also built a successful business career outside music, promoting Cîroc vodka.

In 2023, he released his fifth album and earned a Grammy nomination.

What are the charges against Diddy?

In the federal case, Mr. Combs faces multiple serious charges.

These include racketeering conspiracy and two counts of sex trafficking.

The racketeering charge includes accusations of kidnapping and coercing women into sexual activities.

Police found supplies for orgies at his Los Angeles mansion during a raid.

More than 100 people have filed lawsuits against him for various allegations.

Details of Allegations

One woman claimed she was gang-raped by Mr. Combs when she was 17.

She alleged that drugs and alcohol were used before the attack in 2003.

Mr. Combs’ legal team dismissed these lawsuits as publicity stunts.

His legal troubles began when ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura sued him in late 2023.

That lawsuit was settled quickly; Mr. Combs maintains his innocence.

Controversial History with Cassie Ventura

CCTV footage leaked showing Mr. Combs kicking Cassie in 2016 resurfaced recently.

He apologized for his actions then and now expresses disgust over it.

Mr. Combs describes civil allegations as "sickening" attempts at financial gain.

His lawyer stated they have confidence in the judicial process regarding criminal charges.

They argue he never sexually assaulted or trafficked anyone at any time.


Legal Proceedings

Diddy's lawyers filed a motion to dismiss part of the indictment based on race targeting claims.

They argued he led a lifestyle typical of swingers with multiple partners.

Prosecutors revealed that Mr. Combs rejected a plea deal before trial started.


Current Jail Status

Mr. Combs has been held at Metropolitan Detention Centre since September 16, 2024.

Lawyers argue conditions there are “horrific” and overcrowded.

A judge denied bail due to concerns about him being a flight risk.

Prosecutors allege he broke prison rules by contacting potential witnesses.


Trial Details

A judge allowed Mr. Combs to wear civilian clothes during trial proceedings.

On the first day of jury selection, he appeared nervous but composed.

The trial is expected to last around eight weeks total.

It will be open to the public but not streamed online.


Jury Selection Process

Attorneys made progress selecting jurors on Monday from many potential candidates.

Judge Subramanian emphasized seating an impartial jury throughout questioning sessions.

Many jurors had heard news reports about Mr. Combs' case prior to selection.

Some female jurors disclosed personal experiences with sexual abuse or assault.


At day's end, 19 jurors advanced to further questioning stages from diverse backgrounds.


Potential Sentences if Convicted

If convicted on racketeering charges, Mr. Combs could face life imprisonment.

For sex trafficking convictions, he faces a minimum sentence of 15 years.

Transportation for prostitution carries up to ten years maximum sentence possible.