Diddy trial: Lawyers present opening statements in sex trafficking case

Prosecutors allege that Diddy, 55, used his fame and power at the top of the hip-hop world to sexually abuse women from 2004 to 2024.

NOTE: The following article contains disturbing details and video footage. Please read at your own discretion.

The trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs began on May 12 in Federal District Court in Manhattan as lawyers delivered their opening statements after the jury was finally set.

Prosecutors allege that Diddy, 55, used his fame and power at the top of the hip-hop world to sexually abuse women from 2004 to 2024. He pleaded not guilty after his September arrest and has remained held without bail at a federal lockup in Brooklyn.

The final stage of jury selection for the sex-trafficking trial was delayed on May 9 over concerns that some jurors might get “cold feet” before the high-profile case began. By Monday, the jury and alternates — 12 men and six women — were selected and seated in the courtroom.

The jury is essentially anonymous, meaning their identities are known to the court and the prosecution and defence, but won’t be made public. Judge Arun Subramanian told the jurors that the court “will keep your names and identities in confidence.”

Subramanian reminded the jurors to judge the case only based on the evidence presented in court.

“Anything you’ve seen or heard outside the courtroom is not evidence,” the judge added. “It must be disregarded.”

Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Johnson pointed at Diddy as she said he was “larger than life” to the public, but there was “another side” to the rapper that wasn’t widely shared with the world.