Sean Combs is set to face trial for sex trafficking, with jury selection beginning on Monday amid intense media scrutiny.
This Monday will mark the start of jury selection in the highly anticipated federal trial against Sean Combs, who faces serious charges of conspiracy, sex trafficking, and transportation for the purposes of prostitution. Combs, a businessman, music producer, and founder of the Sean John brand, was arrested in September and has pleaded not guilty to the charges.
During a recent hearing, the 55-year-old artist confirmed that he had rejected a plea deal offered by prosecutors. Judge Arun Subramanian has authorised Combs to wear civilian clothing during the trial, allowing him access to limited garments in court. His legal team will also expand from six to eight lawyers to face the proceedings.
Combs, who is being held at the Metropolitan Detention Center, is also facing multiple additional civil lawsuits from women accusing him of abuse and exploitation through the use of his businesses. He has denied all allegations.
The case has attracted significant media attention, spawning documentaries, podcasts, and television specials. Jury selection is expected to take several days, with opening arguments scheduled to begin on 12 May. The possibility of a life sentence makes this one of the most closely watched trials of the year in the United States.
