Jury selection begins today in the New York criminal trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs (55) who faces multiple charges in relation to sex trafficking, exploitation and a racketeering conspiracy over multiple decades.

After Jury selection which could last a week, opening statements are expected on May 12.

Combs earlier pleaded not guilty and rejected a plea deal.

Jury selection begins in Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs’ sex-trafficking trial https://t.co/phTp2brzMe

— Reuters (@Reuters) May 5, 2025

The indictment says that with the help of his entourage and those who worked for him, Combs was able to engage in a two-decade long pattern of abusive behaviour particularly against women, including drug fueled sex performances with male sex workers in what prosecutors say Comb’s called “freak offs”.

Prosecutors also charge that Combs and his associates resorted to acts of violence including kidnapping.

His defence attorneys argue any group sex was consensual and that there was no effort coerce people into things they didn’t want to do.

The trial is expected to last two months.

 American music star Sean “P Diddy” Combs arrested in Manhattan