A jury of eight men and four women was seated on Monday in the Manhattan courtroom of federal Judge Arun Subramanian for the Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sex trafficking trial.
Combs, who denies allegations against him, is charged with one count of racketeering conspiracy; two counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution.
NBC News reported Monday afternoon that prosecutors alleged in their opening remarks that Combs used his fame and power to run a criminal enterprise that facilitated his “freak offs,” drug-fueled orgies involving paid sex workers.
Prosecutors alleged he used violence and coercion to force the participation of victims in the freak offs, including ex-girlfriend Cassie.
The defense admitted that Combs was jealous and occasionally violent. Combs’ attorneys contend that the alleged victims participated willingly in his sex life. The defense said that his physical abuse and “love of baby oil” were not federal crimes.
Four alleged victims, identified in the indictment as “Victim-1,” “Victim-2,” “Victim-3” and “Victim-4,” are expected to testify during the trial.