Hundreds of potential jurors are set to complete questionnaires this week in federal court in Manhattan, ahead of Sean “Diddy” Combs’ trial on charges of sex trafficking, racketeering, and prostitution. Jury selection is scheduled for May 12, with the trial expected to last eight to ten weeks. Combs has pleaded not guilty.
U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian is overseeing the case, and there has been contention between Combs’ legal team and federal prosecutors regarding the proposed jury questionnaires. Prosecutors argue that Combs’ 72-question survey, which includes sensitive topics like sexual assault and domestic violence, is overly lengthy and personal. In a recent hearing, Subramanian emphasized that these important questions will be asked, but the timing and method remain to be negotiated.
To address concerns, prosecutors suggested adding an option in the questionnaire for jurors to indicate their preference on discussing sensitive issues privately. The final version of the questionnaire has not been disclosed, and once completed, they will be reviewed by both parties.
Combs’ trial centers around allegations that he coerced women into drug-fueled sexual encounters, referred to as “freak offs.” A key witness will be Casandra Ventura, Combs’ former girlfriend, who previously filed a lawsuit against him for abuse, quickly settling but later accusing him of numerous offenses. A video of Combs assaulting Ventura will be presented during the trial, despite his legal team’s efforts to block it. The legal and jury consultant teams will scrutinize jurors’ backgrounds, particularly their familiarity with Combs, to gauge biases and opinions related to the case.
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