Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs Trial Begins Amid Serious Charges

NEW YORK, NY — Jury selection for Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal trial began on May 5, 2025, at the Southern District of New York. Combs faces charges including racketeering and sex trafficking, which could lead to a prison sentence of 15 years to life if convicted.

Combs, 54, rejected a plea deal shortly before the trial. Court documents indicate he has pleaded not guilty to all charges. His defense attorney, Marc Agnifilo, maintains that the sexual encounters involved were consensual, suggesting that the allegations arise from misunderstandings of Combs’ lifestyle.

The prosecution team, notably composed of female attorneys, includes Maurene Comey, the daughter of former FBI Director James Comey. She joins other lead prosecutors, including Emily Anne Johnson, Madison Reddick Smyser, Mary Christine Slavik, Meredith Foster, and Mitzi Steiner. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams highlighted the team’s commitment to seeking justice for the alleged victims.

In December 2024, Maurene Comey joined the case after federal charges were filed against Combs, which stemmed from an investigation into multiple sex trafficking incidents involving unnamed victims. Prosecutors allege that Combs coerced women into commercial sex acts and employed threats and manipulation to exert his influence.

During the trial’s first day, Judge Arun Subramanian oversaw the selection of 12 jurors and six alternates who will serve anonymously. Opening statements are slated for May 12, and the trial is expected to last at least eight weeks, with testimonies from Combs’ alleged victims.

Combs has garnered significant media attention, both for his music career and the troubling nature of the allegations against him. He claims his legal team will showcase evidence asserting his innocence, including videos that they allege demonstrate consensual interactions.

As the trial unfolds, the eyes of the entertainment industry and public remain focused on the proceedings, which could have sweeping implications for Combs and his legacy.