Juror Dismissed from Sean “Diddy” Combs’ Trial
A Black juror has been dismissed from Sean "Diddy" Combs’ ongoing sex trafficking and racketeering trial after U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian found inconsistencies in the juror’s answers about his residency, raising concerns about his honesty and ability to follow court instructions. The juror initially indicated he lived in the Bronx but later said he stayed part-time in New Jersey with his girlfriend and daughter, leading the judge to conclude the discrepancies suggested a “lack of candor” and possible attempts to mislead the court.
Combs’ defense team argued the juror’s residence inconsistencies were likely harmless and claimed the prosecution’s move was part of a broader pattern aimed at removing Black males from the jury. In a letter, they stated the motion must be viewed “in light of the entire history of this investigation and prosecution,” suggesting it was not a genuine question of integrity but an attempt to "strike yet another Black male from the jury.” Despite the defense’s objections referencing racial impact and concerns about the jury’s diversity, the judge emphasized that “the court should not, indeed cannot, allow race to enter into its consideration.”
The dismissed juror was replaced by a 57-year-old white male alternate from Westchester County. Prosecutors denied any racial motivation, pointing out the jury remained “diverse,” with the judge agreeing diversity was not in question. The trial, now in its sixth week in Manhattan federal court, continues with the prosecutors expected to rest their case soon. Combs, 55, has pleaded not guilty to charges including racketeering and sex trafficking, denying all allegations that he coerced women into drug-fueled sexual performances over two decades. The judge also noted another juror is under scrutiny for possible outside communication, but no decision has been made on that matter.
