Diddy’s federal racketeering and sex trafficking trial has kicked off in Manhattan federal court.
Judge Arun Subramanian began jury selection Monday, and according to the New York Post, Diddy admitted to feeling on edge after about 90 minutes of potential jurors being questioned. He also asked for a quick bathroom break.
“I’m sorry, your honor, I’m a little nervous today,” he reportedly told the judge. The 55-year-old music mogul got to wear his personal clothes instead of prison attire, showing up in a blue sweater layered over a white button-down shirt. He watched the jury selection unfold while seated with his legal team.
The jury will come from a pool of 50 individuals. On Monday (May 5), attorneys for both sides questioned potential jurors about questionnaires they’d already completed. The Post reports that jurors will also be asked about their views on hip-hop culture, “people engaging in sexual relations with multiple sexual partners,” and additional topics.
In the end, 12 New Yorkers will be picked to decide Diddy’s fate. The fallen music mogul stands accused of running a racketeering conspiracy that forced women into sexual activities at drug-heavy parties dubbed “freak-offs.” His former girlfriend Cassie is expected to take the stand.
Diddy has maintained his innocence, pleading not guilty to sex trafficking, racketeering, and transportation to engage in prostitution charges. If found guilty of racketeering, he could spend the rest of his life behind bars. Sex trafficking carries a potential life sentence with a minimum of 15 years, while transportation to engage in prostitution could result in up to 10 years in prison.
