Diddy Trial Begins Amid Challenging Jury Selection

Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial began in New York, drawing significant public and media attention due to his celebrity status and the gravity of the charges. Jury selection is proving challenging, with many prospective jurors dismissed for prior knowledge of the case, potential biases, or connections to related media coverage and individuals. The court has decided not to sequester the jury, meaning jurors will return home daily but are instructed to avoid all media and discussions regarding the trial. Diddy, who pleaded not guilty to all five charges and declined a plea deal, is represented by a large legal team. The judge has noted the difficulty of finding impartial jurors, referencing both the extensive jury pool and the impact of pretrial publicity. The trial is expected to last up to eight weeks.