In a dramatic moment during federal court proceedings, the judge overseeing Sean “Diddy” Combs’ criminal trial directly warned the music mogul that he could be removed from the courtroom if he continues to make facial expressions or engage with jurors.
The incident on Thursday, June 5, occurred while the court was in session and the judge was addressing attorneys off the record. He abruptly paused to “make his own record,” calling out Combs’ behavior in front of the jury.
According to those present, the judge said he had been explicit earlier that no party should react, gesture, or look directly at jurors, and that Combs had violated that instruction by nodding and maintaining eye contact with jurors during testimony.
Lead defense attorney Mark Agnifilo acknowledged that the judge’s instructions had been clear.
The judge didn’t mince words, warning that if Combs continues to react in front of the jury, he could face removal from his own trial—a serious consequence that would bar the defendant from being physically present during the proceedings.
This trial carries life-altering stakes for Combs, who faces five federal charges. A conviction on all counts could result in a life sentence.
The judge also raised the possibility of issuing a curative instruction to the jury, an action that could cast Combs’ behavior in a negative light and potentially affect juror perception moving forward.
The warning places Combs in a difficult legal position: remain expressionless in the face of testimony or risk actions that could harm his defense strategy.
This high-profile trial continues to draw national attention, and courtroom behavior—both from the bench and the defense—may now play a more central role in how the case unfolds.
Stay with American Law Reporter for continuing coverage of the federal trial of Sean “Diddy” Combs.
