Prosecutors in Sean Combs’ sex-trafficking case are seeking expert testimony from Dr. Elie Aoun on the rapper’s possible diminished mental capacity, but the defense is fighting to include it.
The government claims that Dr. Aoun’s testimony would be “impermissible hearsay” and argue that Combs’ team did not provide notice of his involvement before the deadline for pretrial motions. However, Diddy’s legal team had filed notice by February 17, 2025, allowing them to introduce evidence on how drugs and alcohol affected Combs’ memory or cognitive function.
The prosecution claims Dr. Aoun hasn’t examined Combs personally, making his proposed testimony irrelevant. They also argue that using an expert opinion as a substitute for calling witnesses would be “impermissible hearsay.”
Combs’ defense is seeking to introduce the idea of a “lifestyle” in which Combs believed was acceptable due to its commonality. However, he cannot provide examples of other high-profile individuals who engage in this lifestyle.
Combs originally faced charges including racketeering conspiracy and sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion. He has maintained his innocence throughout the case. Two new charges were added against him in April 2024, alleging he engaged in sex trafficking a female victim as recently as that year.
The trial is set to begin on May 5, with prosecutors seeking to prove Combs’ involvement in a criminal enterprise and allegations of abuse during his interactions with women.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/entertainment/diddys-claims-diminished-mental-capacity-take-center-stage-days-before-sex-trafficking-trial