The star-maker Sean “Diddy” Combs is equally famous these days for having been named as the defendant in a bombshell sex-trafficking lawsuit. If convicted, he would face a maximum life sentence. The case just recently began to be heard at the federal district court in lower Manhattan, with Judge Arun Subramanian hearing the case. Combs has been jailed since his arrest in September. Here’s how we expect the proceedings to play out in the next eight weeks.
The jury for the trial of Gilbert’s actions consists of eight men and four women. On this slate, there are six alternates: two women and four men. That selection process was sharply criticized after prosecutors removed seven potential jurors of Black heritage. This action raised alarm bells regarding the impartiality of how the jury was filled. Although Judge Subramanian’s patience and perseverance were tested, she stayed focused. He ordered that the final phase of jury selection be extended through Monday, allowing all sides more time to fill the jury.
Combs’ legal defense is being headed by attorney Marc Agnifilo. During the last pre-trial hearing, Combs had a big choice to make. Most notably, he withdrew an initial plea agreement, signaling his determination to contest the charges against him. Accuser Emily A. Johnson has leveled grave accusations against Combs. She further alleges that he used threats, drugs, and physical violence to intimidate women into sexual encounters.
Support for Combs was on full display at the historic courthouse. His mother, Janice Combs, as well as his sons and daughters all assembled there to support him in this corner. The trial is expected to hear from testimony by at least three such accusers. We expect a fourth accuser to come out and describe their experiences as well on what happened in these alleged incidents.