Diddy Fought for his freedom in a trial in New York after his arrest in September 2024. After being struck by accusations which include sex trafficking and racketeering, he pleaded not guilty and doubled by rejecting a advocacy agreement. The selection of the jury is in full swing before the trial, but the process was anything but simple for the court. Here’s what you need to know.
Related: Diddy shares the hope of beating a case during a phone call with you: “The Devil is a liar” (exclusive video)
The selection of the jury begins in the Diddy trial
On Monday, May 5, the selection of the jury started at the Manhattan Federal Justice Palace with nearly 100 potential jurors. Because of Diddy’s profile, the process was faced with certain challenges. Four days later, on Thursday, May 7, potential jurors were still questioned.
Per Usa Today, the current issues that arose during the last judicial session had been questioned about sexual assault. The jurors were invited to know if they were victims of non -consensual sexual acts, as well as possible relatives or friends who had dealt with sexual assault, harassment or domestic violence. It was an effort to reduce the list, which was reduced by almost 100 people to only 45.
Many admitted to be familiar with a 2016 hotel surveillance video showing that Cassie has attacked Cassie, by CNN. Some jurors have referred to media coverage, including a documentary, “The Fall of Diddy”, raising concerns about prejudices. According to USA Today, a woman was an employee of HBO. She was dismissed from the selection when Diddy’s lawyers asked, for the second time, that it was not included due to her links with the company.
The court also called into question the opinions of jurors on the cultivation of hip-hop and the police, aimed at equal treatment. At the end of the day, the court rejected half of the swimming pool. The selection of the jury should end on Friday May 8 according to the Associated Press. Judge Arun Subramanian oversees the procedure, with opening declarations scheduled for Monday, May 12.
Diddy’s charges + his not guilty plea
Diddy faces five federal counts. The father of four was affected by several accusations. These include racketeering, sex trafficking on two charges and two transport managers for prostitution. Prosecutors claim that Diddy forced women at sexual meetings, which often involved male escorts in a trailer, during the parties he called “Freak Offs”. There it would constitute drugs and intimidation to dominate the victims. Other accusations involve the intimidation of witnesses, as well as violent acts such as kidnapping and fire to fire.
A conviction could mean life behind bars for Diddy. However, he remained firm, concluding unparalleled pleads with each accusation after his arrest in September 2024. Just before the trial, it was revealed that the founder of Bad Boy Records had refused a plea, suggesting that he was trusting his defense strategy.
On Thursday, May 1, when judge Arun Subramanian asked if he had rejected the advocacy agreement, Diddy replied, “Yes, I do, your honor. THANKS. According to the BBC, the Defense strategy of Diddy’s lawyers will prove that their client has led a “swingers” lifestyle and appreciated sexual activities with consenting partners.
“There is a lifestyle, call him swingers, that he was to the extent that he thought he was appropriate,” said his lawyer Marc Agonifilo during a hearing, according to ABC News. “The reason he thought it was appropriate is because it is so common.”
Cassie Ventura would testify
In addition, Cassie should testify, and she is considered the central witness to the accusation. His civilian trial 2023 against Combs, alleging rape and years of abuse, initially sparked the legal drama of his ex. According to sources via people, Cassie is “Prepared to testify under his own name.” Three other alleged victims will also testify against Diddy, although they have chosen to remain anonymous. The media adds that they will be discussed using “only pseudonyms” during the trial.
Meanwhile, a video from the 2016 hotel shows that Diddy would have attacked the singer. Prosecutors consider the images as “essential” to the prouvance of milking and strength, according to CBS News. Cassie’s testimony should offer the court a first -hand story of his former relationship with the magnate. The couple was together from 2007 to 2018. However, it should be noted that the Cassie team has not confirmed if they will actually appear in trial.
Related: Cassie would have made a major decision concerning his testimony in the next Diddy trial
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