Jury Selection Begins in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Sex Trafficking Trial

Jury selection has begun in the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs, marking the start of a high-profile legal battle that could lead to a life sentence for one of hip-hop’s most influential moguls.

Combs Faces Serious Federal Charges

Federal prosecutors accuse Combs of using his power and wealth to sexually exploit and coerce women over decades. The five-count indictment includes racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transporting individuals for prostitution. If convicted, Combs could spend the rest of his life in prison.

According to the indictment, Combs orchestrated drug-fueled group sex events—referred to as “freak offs”—and used threats and intimidation to keep victims silent. Prosecutors allege participants were so physically depleted afterward that IV fluids were administered for recovery.

Defense: “He Thought It Was Appropriate”

Combs has pleaded not guilty. His lawyers describe him as a consensual participant in a “swinger lifestyle,” and argue that all encounters were voluntary.

“There’s a lifestyle, call it swingers, that he was in that he thought was appropriate… because it’s so common,” said defense attorney Marc Agnifilo.

Cassie Ventura Case Sparked Federal Probe

The case gained momentum after CNN aired surveillance footage from 2016 showing Combs physically assaulting then-girlfriend Cassie Ventura in a Los Angeles hotel. Ventura’s 2023 civil lawsuit—settled the next day without admission of guilt—prompted federal investigators to dig deeper, eventually leading to Combs’ arrest in September 2024.

Combs later issued a video apology, saying:

“My behavior on that video is inexcusable. I take full responsibility.”

Trial Expected to Be Explicit and Lengthy

Jurors will be vetted for their ability to endure a two-month trial featuring graphic evidence, including testimony from Cassie Ventura and three other alleged victims, two of whom will testify anonymously. Prosecutors will also present items seized during federal raids on Combs’ homes—among them AR-15-style rifles with defaced serial numbers and dozens of electronic devices.

Combs Rejected Plea Deal

Just days before trial, prosecutors offered a plea deal. Combs declined, replying in court:

“Yes I do, Your Honor,” when asked if he rejected the offer.

In court, Combs has appeared in jail-issued clothing, though he will wear regular attire in front of the jury. Family members, including his mother, are expected to attend.

Legal Heavyweights on Both Sides

Combs’ defense team includes:

• Marc Agnifilo and Teny Geragos, who defended NXIVM cult leader Keith Raniere
• Brian Steel, who represented rapper Young Thug
• Alexandra Shapiro, appellate attorney for Sam Bankman-Fried

The all-female prosecution team features:

• Maureen Comey, who secured Ghislaine Maxwell’s conviction
• Emily Johnson, Mitzi Steiner, Madison Smyser, and Christy Slavik, all experienced in prosecuting violent crime and organized rings

A Trial Coinciding With a Cultural Icon’s Fall

Coincidentally, jury selection began the same day as the Met Gala, where Combs was once a red-carpet mainstay. Now, he faces the ultimate test—not in music or fashion—but in a federal courtroom.

Keep up with Combs’ trial with us on Que Onda Magazine.