Exclusive: Music Mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs Faces Explosive Sex Trafficking Trial in New York
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Exclusive: Music Mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs Faces Explosive Sex Trafficking Trial in New York
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About this listen
The highly anticipated trial of music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs began yesterday in Manhattan federal court with jury selection completed and opening statements delivered. Twelve jurors and six alternates—comprising 12 men and six women—were seated on Monday, May 12, as prosecutors began building their case against the hip-hop icon.
Combs, 55, faces five serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy. Prosecutors painted a stark contrast between his public persona and private behavior, telling the court: "To the public, he was Puff Daddy or Diddy, a cultural icon, a businessman, larger than life. But there was another side to him."
The government alleges Combs ran a criminal enterprise since at least 2004 that engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice. Prosecutors described how Combs allegedly forced victims into days-long drug-fueled sexual encounters called "freak offs" or "wild king nights," after which participants would receive IV fluids to recover.
The first witnesses have already taken the stand, including a male escort and a former security guard. Combs' defense team acknowledged he is "a complicated man" but argued this is "not a complicated case," admitting that video showing Combs assaulting former girlfriend Cassie Ventura demonstrates domestic violence but not sex trafficking.
Combs has been jailed since September when he was ordered held without bail. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and recently rejected a plea deal. If convicted, he could face a potential life sentence.
The trial represents a stunning fall for the billionaire entrepreneur who built an empire spanning music, fashion, and spirits. Once worth approximately $1 billion through ventures including Bad Boy Records, Sean John clothing, and partnerships with Cîroc vodka, Combs now fights for his freedom with his mother and children supporting him in court.
The prosecution team includes attorneys who successfully prosecuted Ghislaine Maxwell for sex trafficking, suggesting authorities are bringing their strongest case against the man who once proclaimed himself "Bad Boy for Life."
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