New York, May 12, 2025 — The much-anticipated sex trafficking trial of hip-hop mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs officially began in Manhattan federal court today, with both federal prosecutors and defense lawyers presenting their opening statements. The case has attracted significant attention due to the gravity of the allegations and Combs’ high-profile career.
The trial follows a complex legal process, with jury selection wrapping up earlier in the week. The jury, comprising 12 members and six alternates, will eventually decide the fate of the 55-year-old music mogul. Combs, dressed in a white sweater, appeared in the packed courtroom this morning, where he was joined by his family, including his sons, Quincy Brown and Justin Combs.
Sex Trafficking Allegations Against Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs
Combs has pleaded not guilty to charges stemming from a five-count indictment, which could result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years if he is convicted on all charges. Federal prosecutors allege that Combs coerced women into drugged group sexual encounters and subjected them to violent abuse, including choking, hitting, and dragging victims. The prosecution also plans to present evidence such as security footage from a 2016 incident where Combs allegedly assaulted his former girlfriend, R&B singer Cassie Ventura, in a Los Angeles hotel hallway.
The defense, however, argues that the charges are rooted in a party-loving lifestyle that involved consensual sexual activities. Combs’ attorneys assert that the accusations have been exaggerated and distorted by the media, and they claim any violence was an isolated incident rather than a pattern of behavior.
The Role of Cassie Ventura in the Trial
Cassie Ventura, who filed a lawsuit in 2023 accusing Combs of years of abuse, is expected to testify in the trial. The lawsuit, which was settled shortly after it was filed, triggered an investigation into Combs’ actions and led to numerous other lawsuits from individuals making similar claims. Prosecutors also plan to show jurors video footage of “Freak Offs,” private events where women allegedly engaged in sex with male sex workers while Combs filmed the encounters.
Legal Proceedings and Jury Selection
Before the trial commenced, both sides rejected several potential jurors. U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian approved the jury selection, ensuring that the identities of the jurors remain anonymous for their protection throughout the proceedings.
Combs’ legal team has acknowledged that the music mogul is not without flaws, pointing out that he was undergoing therapy for drug use prior to his arrest. Despite the controversies surrounding him, his legal team maintains that any misconduct or violence was out of character and that any group sexual activities were consensual.
The Trial and What Lies Ahead
The trial is expected to last at least eight weeks, with legal experts predicting that it will have significant consequences for the future of Sean Combs’ career and legacy in the entertainment industry. As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on Manhattan federal court to witness the latest developments in this high-profile legal battle.
