Sean Combs Faces Serious Charges in High-Profile Sex Trafficking Trial

NEW YORK (AP) — The federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs began Monday, where he faces multiple charges including sex trafficking and racketeering. The trial marks a significant moment in the entertainment industry as Combs, 55, has been accused of using his power to exploit women for over a decade.

Combs was arrested last September and has pleaded not guilty. The indictment alleges he ran a criminal operation involving sex trafficking, physical violence, and other crimes dating back to 2004. Prosecutors say he controlled victims through threats, promises of career advancement, and drug use, creating a “criminal enterprise” with associates and employees.

In court, prosecutors detailed how Combs allegedly coerced women into sexual performances, referred to as “freak offs”, often involving male sex workers. These incidents, according to the indictment, included physical and emotional abuse, and were sometimes recorded without the women’s consent.

A crucial piece of evidence is a video from 2016 showing Combs physically assaulting his then-girlfriend, Casandra “Cassie” Ventura, in a Los Angeles hotel. Prosecutors argue that the footage demonstrates his violent behavior. Combs has publicly expressed regret for his actions in the video but has denied all allegations of abuse against Ventura.

The trial will feature testimonies from three to four accusers. Ventura, who settled a lawsuit against Combs in 2023, is expected to be a key witness. The legal proceedings suggest a pattern of manipulation involving Combs using his influence in the music industry to suppress allegations and control victims.

As jury selection progressed, potential jurors revealed familiarity with the case, with some disqualified for pre-existing biases. Judge Arun Subramanian, overseeing the trial, ensured that jurors could be impartial amidst extensive media coverage. The trial is expected to unfold over eight weeks, with opening statements set to begin next week.