Diddy’s trial is just 17 days away from starting jury selection, with federal prosecutors painting a damning picture of a powerful celebrity who allegedly abused and coerced women to fulfill his sexual desires. Here’s a breakdown of the charges against Diddy and key developments in the case.
Prosecutors have updated their indictment three times since the first wave of criminal counts were unsealed, adding new charges and details each time. The latest superseding indictment adds two more charges of sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution, bringing the total number of counts to five.
Diddy’s lawyers have requested that prospective jurors be questioned in writing about their opinions on sensitive topics, but prosecutors oppose this proposal, arguing that questions should be asked in person by the judge. The jury instructions also revealed a more precise timeline for the trial, which is expected to last around eight to 10 weeks.
The charges against Diddy include racketeering conspiracy, sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, and transportation to engage in prostitution. If convicted, he faces maximum sentences of life in prison.
Key developments in the case include:
* Judge Arun Subramanian denied a request to delay the trial for two months.
* Diddy’s lawyers hired attorney Brian Steel, who previously represented rapper Young Thug.
* The first week of the trial will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, with later sessions from 9:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. ET.
This newsletter will provide exclusive reporting and analysis throughout the trial, bringing you closer to the action in federal courtroom in downtown Manhattan.
Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/know-charges-diddy-rcna201911