The first day of jury selection wrapped Monday in New York in the blockbuster federal sex-trafficking trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, who stands accused of years of harrowing abuse.
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Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty on all counts, insisting that any sex acts were consensual, but prosecutors say that for years, he coerced victims into drug-fuelled sex parties using threats and violence.
“Come on up, don’t be shy,” Judge Arun Subramanian said as the first batch of prospective panellists entered at Manhattan federal court.
As at his pre-trial hearings, Combs appeared aged, his once jet-black hair now grey. In accordance with the judge’s order, he was allowed to switch from prison attire to civilian clothing for his trial appearance.
Jurors were given a supplementary 14-part questionnaire about their ability to fairly hear evidence from hip-hop artists, sex workers, and people involved in the use and distribution of drugs.
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They had already undertaken an exhaustive questionnaire on their ability to serve before arrival.