Sean Diddy Combs showed signs of nervousness on Monday, May 5, as jury selection began in his federal sex trafficking case in New York.
The music producer asked for a short break to use the restroom about 90 minutes into the session. The judge first refused but later allowed him to go.
Combs sat with his lawyers throughout the process, quietly discussing which potential jurors to keep or remove. Jury selection is expected to last about a week. Opening statements could begin on May 12, with the trial expected to run for eight to ten weeks.
READ ALSO: WATCH: India Royale Denies Cheating On Lil Durk After Viral Video Sparks Rumors
Over a dozen New Yorkers were questioned on Monday about their knowledge of the case. They were shown a long list of names and locations that could come up during the trial.
Related stories
The list included celebrities such as Kanye West, Michael B. Jordan, and Mike Myers. These names were mentioned only to check for bias; none are accused of any crime.
Names of women who have filed civil suits against Combs also appeared on the list. Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former partner, and Dawn Richard, a member of his former music group, were both named.
READ ALSO: Young Thug Reacts to Kendrick Lamar Name-Drop on ‘Not Like Us’
Ventura’s lawsuit led to the federal investigation, while Richard has claimed in court filings that she witnessed abuse and was also harmed. Combs denies all allegations.
Twelve jurors will be selected to decide if Combs used his status and wealth to sexually exploit women over 20 years.
He is facing five federal charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering. If convicted, he could be sentenced to several decades in prison.
The judge allowed Combs to wear his own clothes in court. He arrived clean-shaven and dressed in a white shirt, black sweater, and gray pants. He has been held at a federal prison in Brooklyn since his arrest in September 2024.
READ ALSO: SkillHouse: 50 Cent Sues Ryan Kavanaugh To Block Release Of Horror Film
Combs has pleaded not guilty and says any sexual activity was consensual. His legal team argues that the lifestyle he lived was common and agreed upon by all parties involved.
He also rejected a plea deal from federal prosecutors, knowing that going to trial could result in a longer sentence if found guilty.
