The high-stakes federal trial against Sean “Diddy” Combs has been thrown into chaos as a crucial witness has been declared missing, feared dead, just days before opening statements are set to begin.
Federal prosecutors are scrambling after they revealed that they have been unable to contact one of the female victims central to the case, referred to as “Victim 3.”
This latest development comes as the trial, which has already attracted significant attention, moves into a critical phase. Prosecutors were planning to have Victim 3 testify about personal and explosive details of the alleged abuse she suffered under Combs’ control.
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However, lead prosecutor Maurene Comey admitted to US District Judge Arun Subramanian that they have struggled to reach the victim, and even if they do, she may not show up to court.
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In a recent court hearing, Comey told the judge, “We are having a difficult time contacting Victim 3 and her attorney,” and suggested the possibility that the victim might not testify at all. Defense attorney Teny Geragos demanded that the prosecution make a decision by the end of the week regarding whether Victim 3 would still be called to the stand.
This situation was particularly unexpected given that, in a memo filed just last month, prosecutors had stated that Victim 3 had expressed no concerns about using a pseudonym during her testimony.
The added complexity of her disappearance comes after the prosecution filed a third superseding indictment, which added additional charges related to sex trafficking and transportation to engage in prostitution in connection with Victim 3.
Combs, the 53-year-old music mogul, faces five charges, including racketeering and sex trafficking. The charges allege that he forced multiple women to participate in drug-fueled “freak offs.”
However, Combs’ defense team has consistently denied the allegations, describing the relationships with the women as consensual. They argue that the alleged victims were former girlfriends involved in private, consensual sexual activities, not coerced into anything.
While Victim 3’s identity remains sealed, the defense has noted that she has been a part of Combs’ circle for years. Notably, the trial will proceed without her testimony if necessary, as Comey emphasized that there are “many, many acts of racketeering” still in play.
The prosecution’s case also includes Victim 1, Cassie Ventura, Combs’ former girlfriend, who plans to testify under her own name. Victims 2 and 4 will appear under pseudonyms, as approved by the court.
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Combs, who appeared in court this week for jury selection, has pleaded not guilty to all charges. He faces life in prison if convicted on all counts.
With jury selection wrapping up, both sides are finalizing the pool of jurors, carefully vetting those who will sit on the panel. Combs appeared visibly anxious in court, requesting a bathroom break, and admitted to feeling “a little nervous” before the proceedings.