High-stakes Sex Trafficking trial begins for music icon Sean 'Diddy' Combs

The sex-trafficking trial of Sean "Diddy" Combs starts Monday in New York City. Jurors may hear opening statements from both sides.

The serious charges against Mr. Combs could impact the entertainment industry. This includes power dynamics across various sectors in the U.S. and beyond.

The trial will attract global attention, especially from Africa. His music and business ventures have gained him a significant fan base there.

Duration of the Trial

The trial's length depends on evidence and witness testimonies. It is expected to last about eight to ten weeks. This duration reflects the case's complexity and the number of people involved.

Charges Against Diddy

Sean Combs faces a five-count indictment in federal court. Charges include racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts related to prostitution.

Additionally, he is facing numerous civil lawsuits. Plaintiffs claim he drugged, assaulted, raped, intimidated, and silenced victims using his power. The prosecution alleges he coerced victims into sexual orgies called "freak-offs." These are accusations that must be proven in court.

Diddy's Response

Mr. Combs denies all charges and allegations against him. He has pleaded not guilty to the criminal charges.

He calls individual lawsuits attempts for a "quick payday." His defense argues these claims come from former girlfriends with whom he had consensual relationships.

Combs allegedly rejected a plea bargain offer from prosecutors, indicating he will fight the charges in court.

Jury Selection Process

In the U.S., selecting jurors is crucial for a fair trial. Potential jurors are randomly chosen from citizen pools using voter registration lists.

They undergo "voir dire," where attorneys and judges assess their suitability and impartiality. In this trial, prospective jurors were asked about their knowledge of the case and experiences with sexual assault or domestic violence.

The goal is to select 12 jurors and six alternates who can fairly decide based on evidence presented.

Potential Jail Time if Found Guilty

If convicted of racketeering, Sean Combs could face life imprisonment. He also faces a minimum sentence of 15 years for sex trafficking charges. Transportation for prostitution carries up to 10 years per count.

Since his arrest on September 16, Mr. Combs has been held at New York City's Metropolitan Detention Center. These sentences are potential outcomes; conviction is not guaranteed yet.

The Making of Sean 'Diddy' Combs

Sean Combs' journey began as an intern at Uptown Records in the early 90s. He quickly rose through the ranks to start Bad Boy Entertainment in 1993.

Bad Boy Records achieved rapid success with artists like The Notorious B.I.G. Sean "Diddy" Combs himself has had six chart-topping hits, including "I'll Be Missing You."

Beyond music, he built a business empire with his clothing brand Sean John and television production ventures like "Making the Band." His ability to blend hip-hop fashion with lifestyle brands helped him reach mainstream success.

This trial will significantly impact various industries, particularly corporate America. It may spark discussions about accountability within entertainment circles as we await a verdict based on presented evidence.