Diddy faced a tense start to jury deliberations in his federal sex trafficking and racketeering trial Monday (June 30) in Manhattan after jurors alerted the judge that one panelist may not be capable of following the law.
The 12-member jury—eight men and four women—began weighing the five federal charges against Combs following nearly two hours of legal instructions from U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian.
But within hours, deliberations hit a snag when jurors sent a note to the bench expressing concern that one of their peers might not be willing or able to apply the law as instructed.
The juror in question, identified during jury selection as a 51-year-old Manhattan-based veterinarian, was flagged by fellow panelists for potentially disregarding the judge’s directions.
The jury requested guidance on how to proceed if a member refuses to follow the legal framework outlined in court.
Judge Subramanian acknowledged the note in open court but did not immediately remove the juror or declare a mistrial. Instead, he reminded the jury of their duty to deliberate based solely on the evidence and legal instructions.
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Diddy is accused of leading a criminal network that trafficked women for sex, manipulated them through fear and violence, and orchestrated drug-fueled encounters known as “freak-offs.”
Prosecutors allege Diddy used his influence and inner circle to coerce women into prolonged sexual situations, sometimes involving male sex workers, and then pressured them into silence.
The charges include racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking, and two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution.
Diddy has pleaded not guilty, insisting all sexual activity was consensual.
While he admitted to domestic violence in past relationships, he denied any involvement in trafficking or organized criminal behavior.
The defense team, led by attorneys Marc Agnifilo, Teny Garagos and Alexandra Shapiro, argued the case was driven by money and revenge, not justice.
They painted Diddy as a celebrity targeted for his lifestyle and claimed the accusations stemmed from consensual adult relationships.
Over seven weeks, jurors heard testimony from ex-girlfriends, including Cassie Ventura, former employees and a Homeland Security agent. The government presented text messages, videos and photos to support their claims.
Diddy’s supporters, including family and close friends, filled the courtroom as deliberations began. Some held hands and prayed quietly as the jury filed out.
Deliberations resumed this afternoon and are expected to continue into the week.
If convicted on the most serious charges, Combs could face a life sentence.
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