Diddy may be gaining a significant early advantage in his sex trafficking trial—even before opening arguments have started.
In a recent court session, prosecutors acknowledged that a witness referred to in legal papers as “Victim No. 3” may not appear in court to testify.
The woman, identified as the alleged victim, resides far from New York, where the proceedings are taking place. Because of this, the prosecution has expressed concern that she might not testify, even if she receives a formal court subpoena.
They further admitted they are currently struggling to make contact with both the woman and her lawyer.
When the judge asked whether this witness’s testimony would be mentioned in opening arguments, lead prosecutor Maurene Coney responded that “Victim No. 3” was not expected to be discussed until the latter part of the trial.
Coney stated that the prosecution planned to portray her as someone who was “abused and sexually exploited by Diddy.”
Diddy’s defense team insisted they needed confirmation by the end of the week on whether the witness would be present, while the judge directed prosecutors to do everything possible to ensure her appearance in court.
On the opening day of the trial, which was mainly dedicated to selecting jurors, Diddy expressed his anxiety directly to the judge, saying: “I’m sorry your honor, I’m a little nervous today.”
This statement came about an hour and a half into jury selection, during which Diddy requested a bathroom break. Although the judge initially denied the request, he soon changed his mind and allowed Diddy to leave.
Throughout the jury selection process, potential jurors were asked if they recognized public figures connected to the case, including Dawn Richard and Aubrey O’Day. The court also inquired whether they were familiar with celebrities like Kanye West, Michael B. Jordan, and Mike Myers.
Diddy was observed conferring with his legal team over whether to excuse certain jurors.
The jury selection phase for this high-profile case is expected to last about a week, with opening statements likely to begin on May 12.
