Diddy Trial Starts May 5 Amid Mental Capacity Debate

As Sean 'Diddy' Combs' federal sex trafficking trial approaches, his legal team is focusing on a defense strategy that questions his mental capacity to commit the alleged crimes, arguing that drug use, intoxication, or impaired mental state affected his ability to form intent. They have sought to introduce testimony from a Columbia University professor and a doctor regarding Diddy's mental condition, but prosecutors contest the relevance and admissibility of such evidence, noting the experts have not personally examined Combs and that the defense failed to provide timely notice. The prosecution asserts that this testimony would violate legal standards and constitute impermissible hearsay. Judge Arun Subramanian, presiding over his highest-profile case yet, has allowed certain evidence, such as a controversial hotel video, but has not yet ruled on whether the mental capacity testimony will be admitted. Jury selection is scheduled to begin May 5, with opening statements expected the following week. Both sides are preparing for a contentious trial that will scrutinize Diddy's lifestyle, mental state, and the prosecution's claims.