As jury selection enters its final stage in the explosive sex trafficking and racketeering trial of music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs, federal prosecutors are grappling with the possible loss of a key witness who allegedly holds critical testimony.
According to NBC News, lead prosecutor Moren Comey informed U.S. District Judge Arun Subramanian that the government has been unable to contact one of Combs’s accusers, referred to as “Victim-3” in court documents. The woman reportedly had previously expressed a willingness to testify under her real name, despite being allowed to use a pseudonym. Prosecutors claim she possesses “very personal and explosive details” of alleged abuse by Combs, 55.
Compounding the issue, prosecutors say they’ve been unable to reach her attorney and remain unsure whether she would even appear in court, regardless of a subpoena. Defense attorney Teddy Garagos asked the court for a definitive answer on Victim-3’s availability by May 9.
The case against Combs stems from a September 2024 indictment in which the music and business tycoon was arrested on charges of racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution. He has pleaded not guilty to all charges and has denied wrongdoing. If convicted, he faces a minimum of 15 years to life in federal prison.
As of Friday, May 9, jury selection remains underway. Judge Subramanian postponed the final phase until Monday, citing concerns that jurors might drop out over the weekend if seated too early. The prosecution opposed the delay, but Combs’s defense team requested it. Currently, 45 potential jurors remain in the pool, which will soon be narrowed down to 12 jurors and six alternates, followed by opening statements.
Combs has been in federal custody since his arrest. Prosecutors allege he used his celebrity status and business empire—with help from associates—to commit or orchestrate crimes over multiple decades, including kidnapping, forced labor, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice.
A central part of the government’s case revolves around what prosecutors described as “freak offs”—drug-fueled sex parties allegedly arranged by Combs’s associates, in which women were forced to engage in sexual activity with male sex workers while being recorded.
While prosecutors say testimony from three to four accusers is expected, the uncertainty surrounding Victim-3’s participation raises questions about the strength of the prosecution’s case. Meanwhile, the defense team has previewed a controversial strategy: portraying alleged incidents with Combs’s former partner Casandra “Cassie” Ventura as mutually violent. Ventura is anticipated to be a key witness.
Judge Subramanian has not yet ruled on whether the defense will be allowed to present evidence of alleged violence by Ventura, noting he will decide on Monday.
The trial, one of the most high-profile celebrity criminal cases in recent years, is expected to draw national attention as it proceeds.
